Month of the Military Child: Ready, set… go!

By Bonnie A. Robinson (ATEC)April 7, 2015

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Excitement and high expectations filled the air for the annual "Eggs-travagansa" egg hunt April 1. More than 40 eager boys and girls lined up at one of three areas allocated for egg hunting on the east lawn of the Dugway Community Club.

April is recognized annually by the Army and other military services as the Month of the Military Child. During this month, the military acknowledges and shows appreciation for the service of America's youngest volunteers.

"We look forward to this event every year," said Carnan Billings the Child, Youth and School Services Trainer, currently serving as the acting Child Development director. "The goal of this event was to show military and civilian children, alike, that they are appreciated."

Seasoned egg hunters shared racing and collecting tips with those who had not yet perfected their egg-gathering skills, as they lined up at the tape that separated the three egg-filled areas divided by age groups. This ensured all ages would have a fair chance to find eggs.

"You just hold tight to your basket and run really fast," whispered an older girl to her smaller companion as they walked toward the starting point.

"Ready, set, go," Billing's announced, which was followed by the whoops and hollers of delight as children scrambled to gather the eggs.

In just moments, the more than 1,000 eggs were collected. Many children carried baskets nearly filled. A few newcomers filled their sweatshirt pockets, while a couple of enterprising veteran egg hunters squired away their finds in backpacks.

Prior to the egg hunt, children were able to have their photos taken with the Easter Bunny on the portico of the club, as parents and grandparent s coached them to smile. Most smiled happily, but some tiny babies were startled at the enormous white bunny sitting on the bench next to them!

Dugway's Child, Youth and School Services have planned several events for children to attend with their families. Celebrations include Earth Day, Patriot's Day, Earth Day and fun days such as silly sock day and funky hairstyle day. If your child is registered at the Child Development Center (CDC) a calendar is available for pick up.

Billings noted the service extended by several individuals who helped with the planning and the set up for the event.

"Thanks to Michael Long, support services, Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation; Jud Joyce Title for loan the public announcement system; Sandi Nelson, School Age Center, Youth Center and Youth Sports director and Sarah Wintle, Youth Center program manager for helping with the coordination and set up; Bobbie Thornton CDC admin for registration and comment forms; and Jimmie Wintle, CDC cook who filled all the eggs," she said.

The celebration concluded with free donuts, éclairs, fruit and pink lemonade served in the community club.