The Marine Corps University held a family day to say, “thank you,” Friday to the family members of its staff and permanent personnel for their support throughout academic year 2013-14.

The schedule of events had something for family members of all ages, from tournament style games of tug-of-war, dizzy-izzy, sack races and water balloon toss, to lunch, snow cones and coolers of ice-cold soda. Teens, toddlers and faculty all found ways to unwind after a challenging academic year.

“This is for the families of staff, active and civilian, who enable the university to meet its mission,” said Brig. Gen. Thomas D. Weidley, president, Marine Corps University. “This is our opportunity to blow off steam, socialize and tell families thank you for allowing their loved ones to be devoted 100 percent to delivering education.”

Many in attendance spoke highly of the family day event as well as their assignment at the university. Kathleen Evans, from Salt Lake City, whose husband is a Navy commander and faculty advisor at MCU’s Command and Staff College, commented while watching her son jump in the bounce house that, “This has been a great assignment even as far as shore duties go, we have pretty much done it all and this assignment has been our best.”

When asked about his opinion of the university, Steven, 12, whose father is a curriculum developer with Enlisted Professional Military Education, took the time between petting Talenti, a three-month-old French Bulldog, and getting a tug-of-war lesson from his dad to say, “It’s awesome here. I would either like to grow up and teach like my dad, or be a military police officer.”

As the games went on into the afternoon, the esprit de corps fostered by family day began to coalesce. Those young and old, civilians, and men and women in uniform had a chance to mingle and relax.

“This is a great chance for us to bring the staff sections together and socialize,” said Weidley. “Ph.D.s, staff members and families can unwind before we get them out on leave for a little while then come right back to start faculty development.”

The 25th commencement of the Marine Corps University will be held to begin academic year 2014-15 at Little Hall on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Aug. 1.