WASHINGTON (Aug. 8, 2015) -- The threat of rain could not inhibit friends, families, and co-workers from enjoying the esprit-de-corps at the annual Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region/U.S. Army Military District of Washington (JFHQ-NCR/MDW) Organization Day picnic at Fort Lesley J. McNair, D.C.
The event was filled with a full day of competitive games, children's activities, music and displays by the Fort Meade Fire Department, a K9 demonstration by the 241st Military Police Detachment from Fort George G. Meade, Md., and a catered picnic lunch hosted by Maj. Gen. Bradley A. Becker, JFHQ-NCR/MDW commanding general.
"I enjoyed Org Day! It was great watching my co-workers get competitive on the volleyball and basketball court," said Courtney Dock, JFHQ-NCR/MDW public affairs specialist. "It was fun to see a very different side of people than what I see every day at work. It was fantastic to meet everyone's kids as well. I get to hear a lot of stories about them, so it was just nice to meet them and see everyone enjoy the time with their families."
The competitive events consisted of basketball, volleyball, bean bag toss and a military versus civilian tug of war competition.
"I loved the competition. I think when you get to this kind of command, it is already competitive in a career and work-sense," said Dock. "I don't know why I was so surprised, but watching everyone really get into the competition of the games was lots of fun."
Making a special appearance at the picnic were members of Vader's 501st "Old Line Garrison", a social group of Star Wars costume enthusiasts, the USO mobile, and members from the 289th Military Police Company, 4th Battalion, 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard).
"I really enjoyed the looking around and talking to the fire department, they are always my favorite," said Dock. "I stayed clear of the bugs that were on display since those grossed me out, but I'm sure the kids loved them though!"
A water slide was set up for some of the smaller members of the JFHQ-NCR/MDW Organization. The Joint Base Myer -- Henderson Hall Fire Department set up a demonstration on how to properly use a fire extinguisher and the 241st MP Det., provided information on car and bicycle safety.
"Being an Org Day committee member was occasionally time consuming but worth it in the end. Leading up to the event, each member led a fundraising event; which all were successful, resulting in the Command having adequate funds," said Sgt. 1st Class Nick C. Taliaferro, chief paralegal noncommissioned officer for MDW's Staff Judge Advocate (SJA). "The committee communicated and worked well as a team which eased the process of putting everything together."
Competition for the coveted Commander's Cup was intense this year with U.S. Army Air Operations Group (AAOG) winning the trophy for the second consecutive year.
"I thought the day went well, despite weather conditions forcing the event indoors. Mr. Lindsey Bender led a short-notice contingency plan that ensured a quality event took place," said Taliaferro. "My favorite part of Org Day was watching the SJA's basketball team beat AAOG with ease in the basketball semi-final. The SJA basketball team was loaded with talent. It was like watching Varsity vs. Pee-Wee."
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Learn more about the "Old Line Garrison" Vader's 501st
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