Army Public Health Center employees gathered throughout the day June 9 at CAPA Field in the Edgewood Area of Aberdeen Proving Ground to enjoy the organization's day of festivities.
Organization Day, commonly referred to as "O-Day," is an opportunity for those who work at APHC to enjoy the company of their coworkers, family and friends in a relaxed environment.
APHC employees organized a series of activities for attendees to enjoy throughout the day, starting as early as 7 a.m. with a 5K color run, followed by opportunities to take part in a Zumba class, play in a golf tournament, eat snow cones and participate in a bake-off competition.
Multiple guests said their favorite aspect of the event was being able to socialize with their colleagues outside of the office.
"I think the best part is getting out of the office and being able to spend time with your coworkers in an environment that is not work-based," Beth Boffen, a chemist with APHC's Laboratory Sciences Directorate, said. Boffen, who said she has been to about 10 organizational day events, said that over the years O-Day has become more family and child friendly.
Carrie Kilby, a health analyst for APHC's Public Health Information Directorate, has brought her children to multiple O-Day's over the years. Kilby said she also likes to see people outside of work, enjoys the camaraderie and believes it is a good family environment.
Kilby's nine-year-old son, Ben, said his favorite part of the day was the color run. "The colored powder," Ben said with remnants of blue powder still across his face. "I liked getting it all in my hair," he said with a grin.
Kilby's 16-year-old daughter, Emma, agreed that the color run was her favorite part. "I'm a runner, so it was fun for me," she said. Emma specified she didn't time her run and ran the 5K to have fun with her family.
APHC also offered a catered lunch to the guests with the purchase of a ticket, in addition to having the option for kids to have hotdogs, hamburgers, chips and a drink. The meal was blessed by Sgt. Maj. Raymond Dues, APHC's senior enlisted advisor, and served before noon.
Throughout the day, the sun was a constant presence, creating a high of 79 degrees and allowing guests to enjoy different lawn games, jump in the bouncy house and socialize with friends and family.
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