FORT SILL, Okla., April 20, 2018 -- The 75th Field Artillery Brigade (FAB) held its annual Month of the Military Child (MoMC) celebration April 6, at Rinehart Fitness Center.
Cold temperatures pushed the event inside, but it went off without a hitch. Families from throughout the Diamond Brigade came together for an evening of family friendly fun.
Capt. Phillip Sutton, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, served as the officer in charge of the event. He said its intent was to give recognition to all the military children throughout the brigade.
"We wanted to hold a free event that children could come out to, and enjoy some food and games with their Soldier," Sutton said.
The event began at 3 p.m., and was open to all brigade Supervisors released Soldiers, even those without children, early and encouraged to attend to support unit families and enjoy the festivities.
A massive M270A1 Multiple Launch Rocket System and an M1068 Fire Direction Control vehicle, were parked near the front entrance of the fitness center. Those static displays were for Soldiers and their families to view and climb inside. Nearby, children lined up to shoot blank rounds at zombie targets using an M4 carbine, an M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW), and the M240B weapon.
At the entryway of the gym, snacks such as popcorn, cotton candy, hot dogs, chips, and various sweets along with drinks were offered. Inside the gym, obstacle courses, a cake-walk game, face-painting, physical training, and soccer stations kept children busy and entertained. The newest addition to the celebration was the "Zombie Shoothouse," where kids shot foam darts at simulated zombies in a darkened room near the back of the gym.
Teleia Ellison, wife of 15th Transportation Company, 100th Brigade Support Battalion Soldier Spc. Lamont Ellison, attended with him and their two sons, Jarmal Gaines and Justice Foster.
Ellison said, she came to the event for her kids to have fun and to support her unit. New to Fort Sill and the brigade, Ellison said her favorite parts were the activities and food.
Their son, Gaines, however, relished in the opportunity to get his hands on the weapon systems.
"The coolest part was getting to shoot the guns," Gaines said. "It was loud!"
As the dreary skies outside began to darken, children ran around in various directions from station to station with their parents. Rain or shine, Soldiers spent time with their families on a day meant to highlight and thank military children for the sacrifices they endure being a part of the Army team, and most importantly the love and support they provide to their Soldier parents.
"Our kids are special because they are resilient in ways other children don't have to be," said Lt. Col. Will Freds, 75th Field Artillery Brigade provisional commander. "Our country's success hinges on a strong Army, and a strong Army is bolstered by a strong Army family."
Social Sharing