Army Community Service marks 59th birthday with community celebration

The White Sands Missile Range community and families came together for a day of fun and laughter to celebrate the Army Community Service's upcoming 59th birthday on July 17, 2024. The event was a delightful break before the new school year at White Sands School begins next week. The Army Community Service will officially turn 59 on July 25.

The event also functioned as an open house, spotlighting the Army Community Service's exceptional 59 years of service and emphasizing the vast array of programs and services available to serve the community's needs. Maria Pangborn, the White Sands Missile Range Garrison Army Community Service Specialist, orchestrated the event with the aim of laying the groundwork for a grander 60th birthday celebration next year.

"It's a great way for the community to come together and engage with our amazing and supportive Command Team and other organizations," said Pangborn. "In addition to the open house specific to ACS and its programs, the team came up with the idea to incorporate the bus tour portion of our Newcomers and Spouses Orientation with this event. Instead of today's bus tour, some bus tour briefers are here with information tables to promote their programs and services."

The fantastic family event showcased delicious food from the Frontier Club and an exhilarating water slip-and-slide courtesy of the White Sands Missile Range Fire Fighters. Different organizations organized thrilling activities, including a jumping balloon and coloring activities to entertain the kids. Guests had the chance to grab tons of freebies and exciting flyers to keep the memory of the fantastic services provided by White Sands Missile Range fresh in their minds.

WSMR ACS and the Volunteer Program extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made today's event a success: the Family Advocacy Program, Outdoor Recreation, Frontier Club, Child and Youth Services, WSMR Fire Department, BOSS Program, Bell Gym, Army Substance Abuse Program, WMSR Post Library, and Navy Federal Credit Union. Your participation and support were invaluable. We also want to express our special thanks to the Public Affairs Office and the Command Team for their unwavering support of White Sands Missile Range Army Community Service!