Summer Fun Fest: Foundation connects Fort Hood households | Article

FORT HOOD, Texas — More than 1,300 navy households attended the Rick Herrema Foundation’s first Summer Fun Fest on July 19 an occasion aimed toward constructing connections and offering neighborhood assist.

The basis, established greater than a decade in the past at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, expanded to Texas to assist one of many Army’s largest active-duty populations. The occasion mixed video games, music and family-friendly actions with entry to trusted suppliers and organizations targeted on resilience, readiness and well-being.

Greta Buccellato, deputy to the garrison commander, stated the occasion aligned carefully with Fort Hood’s mission.

“Events like this, made possible through partnerships with organizations like the Rick Herrema Foundation, help bridge the gap between our on-post and off-post communities,” she stated. “By coming together for family-centered activities, we strengthen relationships, foster mutual support and build a more connected, resilient Fort Hood.”

For Eric Ballester, govt director of the inspiration and a retired Army veteran with 10 fight deployments, the work is deeply private.

“A strong family builds a strong military, which builds a strong nation,” he stated. “That’s what we’re here to support.”

Ballester stated his work with the inspiration isn’t only a new chapter — it’s a private mission rooted in 20 years of navy expertise.

“After serving two decades in uniform, I’ve seen firsthand the stress military life puts on families,” he stated. “This is my service after service, helping make sure no spouse or child is left feeling forgotten or isolated.”

For many who got here out, the occasion was not nearly enjoyable. It was a possibility to reconnect by a community-focused gathering.

“It definitely brings that sense of connection we don’t always get,” stated Lashonda Moore, an Army veteran who attended with buddies. “It’s good to see something that focuses not just on the Soldiers, but on the families too.”

Retired Army veteran Jonathan McMahon, who spent 13 years stationed at Fort Hood, stated the occasion introduced the type of vitality and neighborhood spirit the set up was as soon as recognized for.

“There used to be a lot more events like this — free carnivals, festivals — but then it kind of stopped,” McMahon stated. “To see it coming back now is amazing. Families need this.”

Even the youngest members of the Fort Hood neighborhood discovered methods to provide again. Naomi Suzuki, 9, proudly volunteered alongside her mother, serving popcorn and sharing smiles with different households all through the day.

“It felt great,” she stated. “I never did this before. I got to help people and see them smile.”

The Rick Herrema Foundation can be establishing a everlasting recreation middle and park close to the put up’s predominant gate. Once accomplished, it will likely be obtainable to items, chaplains and the broader neighborhood for occasions and connection.

Buccellato stated the garrison is proud to associate with non-federal organizations that uplift service members and their households.

“Family-focused community events like Summer Fun Fest help build trust and connection amongst the Central Texas community, Fort Hood and the families we serve,” she expressed. “Whether it’s the high-energy fun of Nerf Wars or the calm of yoga, these shared experiences — made possible through partners like the Rick Herrema Foundation and our Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation team — build the kind of bonds that strengthen not just individual relationships, but the entire Fort Hood community.”

The Summer Fun Fest is only one instance of how Fort Hood continues to construct significant connections between the set up and the households who name it house.

For extra details about the Rick Herrema Foundation, go to rhfnow.org/texas.