MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE ALBANY, Ga. -- Service memebers, base employees and their families enjoyed a night of activities at Marine Cpros Logistics Base albany's anaual Harvest hayride, here, Oct.22.
The hayride was hosted by the Chaplain’s Office to foster camaraderie among families living and working on the installation.
“This is a wonderful event for families and base personnel to come out during this time of the year, where it is dedicated to a whole entire season instead of one particular holiday,” Petty Officer 2nd Class Peter Green, chaplain’s assistant, Base Chapel, MCLB Albany, said.
Marine and Family Services was among several other organizations to participate in the activity. Marcus White, family readiness officer, took an active role in putting on the event.
“We just found that it was a lot easier if we combined all of our efforts into one event rather than having numerous events spread out throughout the fall with lower participation,” White said. “Not only is this night about fun, it’s about giving out information about the services that are available here.”
Marine and Family Services personnel also used the event to educate others on Red Ribbon Week, a national initiative established to educate children on the dangers of drugs and alcohol. The event is held Oct. 24-31, annually.
“The event is meant to commemorate a fallen (Drug Enforcement Administration) agent who was a former Marine,” Brenda Ray, health and education coordinator, Marine and Family Services, MCLB Albany, said. “He lost his life during the course of duty. We commemorate his sacrifice with red ribbons.”
The event also differed in other respects from previous years. Costumed children were able to fill their sacks and plastic pail during Trunk-or-Treat and watch the movie “Tangled” on a portable outdoor theater screen.
Children were also able to play in inflatable playgrounds and enjoy a nighttime hayride along Perimeter Road.
Town and Country restaurant also provided families with grilled food.