Community says 'thank you' with annual picnic

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Michael Blair
  • 452 AMW Public Affairs
MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, CALIF. --  "Thank you for your service" is a common refrain servicemembers have heard since America declared its war on terror; however, public sentiment hasn't always been so kind. Experiencing love or hate from the general public while wearing a military uniform goes with the territory.

Fortunately, March Field is blessed with a civilian community who not only say they appreciate the military; they actually show their gratitude. For the last 38 years, through eight United States presidents and regardless of public opinion, the people of Moreno Valley and Riverside have organized and funded annual picnics to demonstrate their appreciation for men and women in uniform.

With the smell of hot dogs and hamburgers floating on the warm summer air, Saturday, Sept. 18, saw a repeat of this annual event which began when the Air Force was only 25 years old.

"Today is the 63rd birthday of our Air Force," said Maj. Gen. Eric Crabtree, Fourth Air Force commander, during his remarks before the picnic started. "Congressman Ken Calvert is here. So is Mayor Bonnie Flickinger of Moreno Valley and Mayor Ron Loveridge of Riverside."

Addressing Airmen directly, the general said, "You have made it through a tough series of inspections and now is a time for you to relax and enjoy the day."

More than 5,000 military members and their families settled on grass under the shady trees in LeMay Park to listen to remarks by General Crabtree; event hosts Roger Rupp and Julie Verduzco; area leaders; and this year's picnic honoree, Laura "Flag mama" Froehlich before enjoying free food, beverages, games, a car show and music by The Buck Ford Pure Country Band.

"The Air Force really knows how to get it done," said Buck Ford, "and I'm very happy to be here."

During breaks between songs, names of senior leaders were called to take turns sitting in the dunk-tank. Friends and co-workers used the opportunity to drench their superiors with well aimed throws. Meanwhile, children enjoyed a range of free activities including a climbing tower, face-painting booth, bounce-houses (including wet bounce houses to beat the summer heat) and toys to enjoy while playing in the park.

The crowd thinned as the sun crept lower on the horizon. After a day dishing thousands of servings of food, University of California Riverside Local Government and Community Relations Director, Jeff Kraus, summed up the communities' attitude with one complaint: "I still can't get volunteers to leave!"