The Special Olympics Fun Field Day Meet was held at Butler Stadium for the second year in a row on April 5, 2014.

The Exceptional Family Member Program partnered with the surrounding counties and the D.C. area to spread the word about the meet. The athletes made their way onto the field with their family, friends and volunteers by their side, who were cheering them on and getting excited with them. There were eight stations and more than 70 athletes who participated in each event.

“We have children involved from all services plus we have civilians who don’t have any affiliation with the military but meet the criteria for the Special Olympics,” said Monique O’Neil, Marine Corps’ EFMP program manager for the east coast, Europe, Africa and South America. “We have the 25- and 50-meter run, standing long jump, soccer kick, beanbag shot-put, shuttle run, triple hula-hoop jump and an obstacle course.”

Each station was a competition, and the score of each athlete was recorded, but competing didn’t stop them from laughing and enjoying their time on the field.

“It teaches [participants] sportsmanship, gives them a sense of pride in their accomplishments and shows people, ‘I am an athlete; I can do this,’” said O’Neil. “They come out and socialize with their peer groups. There are so many benefits for the youth who are participating in this event.”

Volunteers from around Marine Corps Base Quantico also enjoyed the opportunity to spend the morning on the field with the participants.

“My family and I actually volunteered together,” said Mami Drmon, a volunteer from the Wounded Warrior Regiment. “I thought it was a good opportunity for my family to volunteer together, and it was great. It almost brought me to tears seeing the athletes have fun.”

Every athlete received a medal after their events, and although the parents and the volunteers were just there for support, they also enjoyed themselves as much as the athletes did.

O’Neil said she appreciated all the support from Quantico and the surrounding areas, and she looks forward to the Olympics next year.

Correspondent: sarah.a.garcia@usmc.mil