stage at Villagio, U.S. Army Garrison Vicenza, today. Mrs. Obama was
visiting the U.S. military installation to reinforce her support for service
members and their military fam... VIEW ORIGINAL
Jr., U.S. Army Garrison Vicenza commander, read a book together to children
of military families at the Youth Center in Villagio today. The book reading
was part of the Disney-s... VIEW ORIGINAL
Soldiers, families, Department of Defense civilians, and Italian nationals excitedly welcomed First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama to the Summer Family Fun Day at Villaggio today.
Although the weather wavered between rain and then blistering temperatures, attendees were not disappointed to spend the day with the First Lady who brought along daughters Malia and Sasha, mother Marian Robinson, and a niece.
The purpose of Mrs. Obama's visit was to spend time with members of the military and their families stationed at U.S. Army Garrison Vicenza. She delivered remarks to the crowd, especially thanking service members and their families for all they do in their sacrifice to the nation.
"I want all Americans to understand that American families don't stop, that you face challenges that many don't even understand … When you're overseas, the simplest things are amplified--taking a trip, trying to catch the bus, learning the language, going to get supplies, visiting the hospital. Not to mention that your spouse may be whisked away at a moment's notice," said Mrs. Obama. "Those sacrifices are what make you heroic, and I wanted you to know how much we all appreciate you."
After her remarks, Mrs. Obama and her family members served ice cream to the children in attendance with the help of a few Soldiers and the USO. Another highlight of the day was the Books on Bases presentation at the Youth Center. The program was kicked off by Malia and Sasha as they shared a reading of "Unicorn Thinks He's Pretty Great" by Bob Shea to a crowd of about 200 children. The girls were followed by their mother and Col. Robert L. Menist Jr., USAG Vicenza garrison commander, who collaborated on an animated reading of "Don't Play with Your Food," also written by Shea.
Menist said he enjoyed reading aloud to the children with Mrs. Obama. "She was very warm, very cordial, and you could tell she was touched to be here and be a part of our Soldiers' and families' lives," he said.
The final special event took place when Mrs. Obama joined with Operation Shower, Glam4Good, and other organizations to surprise approximately 30 expectant mothers with a baby shower. The moms-to-be were showered with gifts and makeover opportunities while participating in the first international shower thrown by the organization.
More photos of the First Lady's visit can be found at https://www.flickr.com/photos/usagvicenza/sets/72157654914185451
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