1st Armored Division families enjoy day of traditional fun at Pumpkin Patch Festival

By Master Sgt. Eric Pilgrim and Jameelah Arcila (USAG Wiesbaden)October 27, 2010

1st Armored Division families enjoy day of traditional fun at Pumpkin Patch Festival
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1st Armored Division families enjoy day of traditional fun at Pumpkin Patch Festival
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1st Armored Division families enjoy day of traditional fun at Pumpkin Patch Festival
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WIESBADEN, Germany - Families from the 1st Armored Division celebrated Halloween early with a visit to Paul's Bauernhof Oct. 16.

The event, organized by 1st AD's Rear Detachment for the third straight year, drew more than 200 Soldiers and family members to the farm near Wallau.

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Between bobbing for apples and the cakewalk, there were many opportunities for fun, including hayrides, a witch's sweep and a costume competition. Seasonal food and hot apple cider were favorites.

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"It's the last big fun thing we do before the Soldiers get home," said Elena Schachter, 1st AD's family readiness support assistant.

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This year's event was extra special, as it is the last time 1st AD will collaborate with Paul's Bauernhof before the division moves to Fort Bliss, Texas, next summer.

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In addition to celebrating with Reiner Paul, owner of the farm and long time friend to the American community in Wiesbaden, members of the 1st AD invited families connected to the Hessen State Command Family Support Center-Wiesbaden, one of 31 centers like it in the country supporting German military families. This collaboration was orchestrated by Lt. Col. Conrad Wiser, rear detachment commander, and German Sgt. Maj. Uwe Krollman.

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"We wanted to further close cooperation between our family support center and theirs, and build on that relationship," said Krollman.

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If the smiles on the faces of the attendees were any indication, the cooperation was a huge success.

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Capt. Rich Montiel, one of the organizers of the event, said he was very excited about this year's turnout. "It's all about the spouses and getting everyone together."

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The steady flow of German and American families into the barn was a good sign that 1st AD families were also really excited for the chance to get together.

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Amy Jochims summed it up as she put the final touches on a pumpkin she was carving. "I am having fun, that's why we're here."

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