Marine Corps Community Services hosted a Month of the Military Child celebration on Marine Corps Base Quantico on April 12, 2014.

Active duty, reserves and retiree families from all services, as well as Department of Defense civilian families were welcome to join the celebration that included an Easter Parade Stroller Brigade, Easter Egg Hunt and Kids First Fair.

“We wanted to have one big event for Month of the Military Child,” said Beth Kranz, head of recreation business activities for Semper Fit. “It’s just great for any family to be able to come out on a beautiful day and have an activity to do.”

The mile-long stroller brigade walk was the first event and families were encouraged to decorate strollers and wagons. Tote bags and bears with blankets inside were donated for the families who participated in the parade.

The Kids First Fair consisted of more than 20 activity or snack tables. Activities from bowling, face paint, horseshoes, miniature boat races and more. A snow cone machine and popcorn maker was also there to keep the children’s appetite satisfied during their celebration.

The Easter Egg Hunt was divided by age groups that went at different times. Every age group had enough children to swarm the fenced area and made it a challenge to navigate through.

“It was a blast for my children,” said Jillian Roscoe, a military spouse. “There were lots of activities and resources. This is a good opportunity to see what resources are offered that we can take advantage of.”

Kranz said there were a lot of volunteers, and the event couldn’t have been as successful without them. Brining the three events together made it possible for families to attend them all.

Correspondent: sarah.a.garcia@usmc.mil