Wounded Warrior Regiment Marine, families enjoy camaraderie

QUANTICO, Va. Marines, families and friends of the Wounded Warrior Regiment gathered in Ellis Hall, here for Family Day on May 1, 2009.

The day proved to be an excellent day to draw Marines and families of the Wounded Warrior Regiment together. “It is a way for the Marines and families of the unit to get better acquainted, build esprit and camaraderie, and have some fun,” said Milinda Rau, Family Readiness Officer, Wounded Warrior Regiment and planner of the event.

With activities ranging from Moon Bounce, face painting, coloring, to balloon figures, and music withplenty of food, the families of the Wounded Warrior Regiment had a great afternoon. The Wounded Warrior Regiment recently celebrated its 2nd Anniversary; the Regiment has become a cohesive team of committed Marines, Sailors, and civilians that take the mission of supporting and assisting wounded Marines and families through the phases of recovery very seriously, according to Rau.

In addition to the staff of the Regiment HQ, the Regiment hosted the Patient Affairs Team and liaisons from Bethesda and Walter Reed Medical centers as well as patients and their families from both facilities. Invaluable support was provided by Marine Corps Community Service (MCCS) through Joe Barfield, MCCS Coordinator and The Basic School dining facility, as well as a team of Marines that helped with the set-up and clean-up before and after the event.

Col. Gregory Boyle, Commanding Officer, WWR expressed his gratitude several organizations that have been friends to the Regiment over the last 2 years. “I’d like to thank Hope for the Warriors, Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, Robison International, Marine Corps Association, and the Bob Woodruff Foundation for their generous support to our Marines and their families” said Boyle.

The Family Day was a resounding success with all from the youngest to the most experienced having a great afternoon.