A concert by the Marine Corps Band San Diego, static displays, pavilions sheltering information booths, games and activities for all::r::::n::ages, face painters, rides and a barbecue providing food for all, were the attractions at Summer Fest. The event is the depot’s annual::r::::n::celebration of the coming summer. Summer Fest took place on the Honor’s Lawn in front of Pendleton Hall.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Eric Quintanilla

Depot carnival, concert gives fun start to summer

4 Jun 2011 | Lance Cpl. Eric Quintanilla Marine Corps Training and Education Command

MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT, San Diego -- Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego celebrated the coming summer with carnival-like entertainment and a concert by Marine Band San Diego, June 4.

Summer Fest was a free event aboard the depot open to all service members and families. It was also the kick-off for the band’s summer concert series.

Although normally two separate events, it was decided to combine both family day and the Summer Concert into one exciting extravaganza.

“I wanted an event that focused on families,” said Maj. Gen. Ronald L. Bailey, commanding general, MCRD and the Western Recruiting Region. “For them to totally enjoy the events in the afternoon, evening and have it summed up by a concert.”

Activities included carnival rides, games with prizes, laser tag, a clown, a bounce house and much more. Booths were also set up for military spouses to showcase their individual businesses.

“(We were) extremely honored to participate in the Family Fun Day at MCRD,” said Amanda Thompson, owner of Sweet Cheeks Photography.”

“We were very excited to have the opportunity to let so many wonderful families at this event know about our services.”

Aside from activities, there was a cookout for all the guests that included hotdogs, hamburgers and chicken. To complete the scene, carnival snacks such as cotton candy and ice cream were available.

“They can enjoy a day of BBQ and games,” said Capt. Timothy Kent, the assistant enlisted operations officer. “They get to have a good time at no cost to them.”

Marine Band San Diego provided rock band style entertainment throughout the day and ended the night with their annual Summer Concert.

“We’re making sure the depot is engaged in the families,” said Kent. “It provides an opportunity to showcase Marine Band San Diego.”

MCRD also received support from other units that included military static displays for guests to climb inside and see the different types of equipment Marines use on a daily basis.

“It helps build family ties, especially for drill instructors,” said Staff Sgt. Christopher Maginnis, a senior drill instructor for Company H. “We can spend quality time with our families and strengthen those family bonds.”

The next concert in the summer series will be held in Escondido, Calif., July 4.