Weather Stays Nice for SMDC/ARSTRAT Picnic

By Sharon L. HartmanJune 30, 2009

Preparing for the crowds
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Riders hit the trail
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Volleyball Matches
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Enjoying the day
4 / 8 Show Caption + Hide Caption – From left to right, 1st Sgt. Anthony Manalo of HHC, 1st Space Brigade, Maj. Timothy Bennett of G3, Operations, Lt. Col. Scot Cuthbertson the Assistant to the Deputy Commanding General for Operations, and Master Sgt. Cody Baker, acting Command Sergean... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
"Catch, Mom!"
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Swing Time
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Preparing for the Ride
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Time to Eat
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FORT CARSON, Colo. - Compared to previous years, the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command/Army Forces Strategic Command's Colorado Springs annual organization day at Turkey Creek Park on June 12 was a picture-perfect day. Most of the picnickers began arriving around 10:30 a.m. and were greeted by organizers of the event (G6 and other members of the picnic committee from various sections of the command), who were grilling food and setting up for the day's activities.

Although the sun was shining, the roar of thunder was still heard as a group of motorcyclists blazed their way into the park. The 38 riders, members of the command along with some family members, left Peterson Air Force Base's Building Three at 6:30 a.m. for their annual ride to the picnic. The group made stops at Woodland Park, Cripple Creek and Canon City before turning into Turkey Creek around 11:30 a.m.

An enormous amount of food including fried chicken, hamburgers, bratwurst and hot dogs, flanked by a vast array of side dishes and desserts, lined the tables under the pavilion. A laser tag tent, a bouncer and the playground were highlights for the kids, while adults enjoyed volleyball, horseshoes, football and a wide variety of other activities throughout the day. With plenty of food and activities to go around, revelers ate and played games to the sounds of the U.S. Air Force Academy's "Wild Blue Country" Band, who assisted in doling out door prizes with the hot ticket of the day - a $50 gift card.

As most partiers were heading out, thunder could once again be heard, but this time coming from the sky. Participants weren't bothered though--everyone was just thankful that the rain held off long enough to allow for a great day of food, fun and friendship.