Posted on: Monday, December 6, 2004
'Ohana Day thanks the troops
Advertiser Staff
Military service members and their families will be treated to music, games and food at the second 'Ohana Day, on Saturday at Wheeler Army Airfield.
The event, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Wahiawa base, is sponsored by Gov. Linda Lingle's office and the Hawai'i National Guard. It is not open to the public.
"'Ohana Day is one small way the state and community can demonstrate support for our service men and women and their families," Lingle said. "The families we met at the first Operation 'Ohana were so appreciative of the picnic and festivities for the children and we appreciate them and are grateful for all the sacrifices the military makes each and every day.
"During the holidays, we especially want to reach out to the families who are left behind to let them know that the people of Hawai'i care, and to give our deployed troops peace of mind that their families back home are being supported."
The first 'Ohana Day, held in May, attracted more than 5,000 members of the military community, as well as volunteers and supporters.
At Wheeler this Saturday, festivities will include a visit from Santa, live music by the Air Force Band of the Pacific, games, karaoke, entertainment by the Hawai'i Pacific University Dancers, and free lunches, popcorn and shave ice.
More than 14,000 Hawai'i-based service members are deployed or preparing for deployment. One of the latest units called for deployment consists of more than 2,000 members of the Hawai'i Army National Guard's 29th Brigade Combat Team.
The 29th Brigade Combat Team will break from training at Fort Bliss, Texas, for the holidays. About 300 soldiers are planning to stay at Fort Bliss during the holidays. The others will fly home to the Islands or meet their families on the Mainland.
A campaign organized by Army wife Ame Frey has raised money to help 58 soldiers fly home, and is collecting donations to the Home for the Holidays fund at any Bank of Hawaii branch. Contact Frey at mfrey1@hawaii.rr.com.
