As part of the Month of the Military Child, more than 800 children and their families had the chance to see and play with various animals at the Bob Hope Theater here April 1.
The purpose of Month of the Military Child, which people celebrate throughout April, is to emphasize the courage, resilience and sacrifices that more than one million children in the military community have to make.
To kick off the month, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar held a free SeaWorld animal showing for military families.
“SeaWorld San Diego is a long time supporter of the military community,” said Anthony Flores, the senior manager for marketing at SeaWorld San Diego. “We wanted to support Month of the Military Child.”
Several handlers brought animals on stage for the children to observe including an arctic fox, penguin, river otter, owl, vulture, python snake, alligator and exotic birds.
As the handlers brought each animal out, they gave background information on the species such as which continent it originated from and if it was endangered. While they spoke, the handlers walked the animals through the main aisles of the theater for the children to look at.
The children liked the show a lot, explained Tonia Keovongsy, a military wife. It was a good activity for them to do while on spring break.
After the handlers finished showing each animal, they held a period for the children and families to look at and feel some of the animals on stage.
“We appreciate the sacrifices that our families of the armed forces make,” said Flores. “Bringing a lot of fun and a lot of education seems like a small thing we can do for them. I’d like to come back again.”
Following the show, the theater held a free movie showing of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians: the Lightning Thief” for the families.
MCAS Miramar plans to hold more activities for the children during April. Some upcoming events include free movie nights April 10 and 24, a San Diego Civic Dance Arts performance April 15 and the Ronald McDonald Show April 29.
Month of the Military Child helps remind the community that military children need to be honored for their courage. Whether they’re writing a letter to a deployed parent or giving a hug to one coming home from work, their effort makes a difference.
For more information on Month of the Military Child, visit the Marine Corps Community Services’ Web site www.mccsmiramar.com.
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