Golden hay bales and fat, orange pumpkins dotted the grounds at Biggs Park, where U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy students, faculty and family members gathered to attend the academy's Fall Festival on Oct. 24.

The creative brain-child of Command Sgt. Maj. David Yates, commander of A Company, the festival presented children and adults alike an afternoon of season-appropriate activities to indulge in, including a pumpkin toss, apple-bobbing and pumpkin carving. It also included physical challenges at the climbing tower and paintball facility.

Col. Donald Gentry, the USASMA commandant, said the festival was "a wonderful event, offering enhancement for student family members, as well as an opportunity for our students to make friends for life."

Master Sgt. John Dunlap and his wife Julie arrived with daughters Brianna, 11, and Bianca, 1, and son Brayden, 5, in tow. They watched as their children took part in the moon jump and face-painting offered by several volunteers dressed as clowns. Brianna also braved the climbing tower, making it all the way to the top.

Manned by USASMA students, the tower proved a favorite among several children.

"The kids are really excited and eager to climb up to see if they can make it to the top," said Master Sgt. Anthony Pena, a climbing tower guideline facilitator.

Many climbers were rewarded for their efforts by reaching the top, some with discreet assistance from the facilitators. Participants in the games were rewarded for their efforts with bronze, silver and gold medals.

Academy leaders said the festival was a rousing success; so much so that those who are around next year will be rewarded by enjoying another one.