MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT SAN DIEGO -- As part of the 101 Days of Summer, the Martial Arts Expo and Men’s Health Fair was held June 11 at the field house aboard the depot.
The event is also part of summer-long competitions that share the mission of eliminating illegal drug use and promoting responsible use of alcohol within the military.
The event allowed local dojo membersto visit the depot and give demonstrations and information about various styles of martial arts such as Krav Maga, stick and knife fighting and defense, karate, kung fu and aikido.
“I came here hoping to get information about martial arts, outside from my experience with the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program,” said Lance Cpl. Anthony D. Kingrey, supply clerk, property control office. “I learned that different types of martial arts use different approaches to take out the opponent.”
Kingrey enjoyed seeing the different types of martial arts, especially Jiu Jitsu because it seemed more free-spirited, he said.
“Martial arts can help participants of the event learn about different styles out there to supplement their training,” said Andrea Callahan, health promotions coordinator, Semper Fit Health Promotions.
This is the first time the Martial Arts Expo was paired with an informative, positive event like the Men’s Health Fair, said Callahan.
Just in time for June, which is Men’s Health Month, the health fair provided free men’s health screenings and information. The fair was aimed to help men develop a proper plan and training routine to get into top fighting condition, said Callahan.
It’s crucial for everyone to have access to health information tailored to their needs, ensuring they are on the right track to their optimal health, said Callahan.
What Callahan would like to see participants take from this event is to be aware of health promotions and know her department is a resource for everyone and their families.
In addition, the fair offered giveaways, raffles and healthy snacks.
The fair also sparked healthy competition among depot units. Commands earned points by checking in at the registration booth during the event and through attendance at the events. During the expo and health fair, with 1 to 25 percent of a commands attendance, the command earns 100 points; 26 to 75 percent, 200 points is earned; and 76 percent and up, 300 points is awarded.
Headquarters Company and Service Battalion tied with Recruit Training Regiment, each earning 100 points for the event.
The overall standings for the challenge are Headquarters Company and Service Battalion, having earned 970 points so far. Recruit Training Regiment has received 790 points, and 12th Marine Corps District currently has 440 points.
The command earning the most points will receive a command trophy and a cash award of $250 to be deposited into the command’s funds. Awards will be presented at the finale event, Fight Gone Bad competition, Aug. 19.
101 Days of Summer is sponsored by Semper Fit Health promotions, Single Marine Program, Fitness Center, Depot Safety and Substance Abuse Counseling Center.
Following the Martial Arts Expo and Men’s Health Fair is the Summer Sun Safety Fair July 7.
For more information on 101 Days of Summer, contact Callahan, at (619) 524-8913.