Annette Rivera, CRWA treasure, challenges the audience to a game of movie trivia during the Civilian Appreciation Annual Picnic at Barnett Field aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, Aug 20. Barnnett Field provides a central area for team building events here on base.

Photo by Ida Irby

Civilian appreciation picnic builds comradery on MCBQ

27 Aug 2015 | Ida Irby Marine Corps Base Quantico

Marine Corps Base Quantico -- The Civilian Recreation and Welfare Association, a nonprofit organization, hosted the annual Civilian Appreciation Picnic at the Barnett Field Aug. 20. The CRWA helps civilian employees through coordinating events that promote networking and welfare services. Over the years, members of the CRWA have grown to approximately 1,400 civilians.

“We want to show civilians how much their hard work is appreciated,” said Robert A. Hanscom, CRWA president. “We host this event every year to promote comradery and teamwork among the civilians here on base.”

CRWA also recognized the sacrifices of civilian family members by inviting them to join in on the fun. More than 25 Marines, 12 CRWA board members, and 12 civilians volunteered to support the event. The CRWA hosts recreational events that are funded through Marine Corps Community Services.

Attendees of all ages participated in the Hollywood-themed event featuring a live DJ, door prizes, photo props and line dancing. Children received gift boxes and Annette Rivera, CRWA treasure, challenged the audience to a game of movie trivia for learning and entertainment.

According to Hanscom, the event helps government employees interact outside the office and network to build stronger relationships while working on base.

—iirby@quanticosentryonline.com