USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea -- USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea – Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251 participated in a steel beach picnic aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) flight deck, June 15.
The picnic was coordinated by the carrier’s Morale Welfare Recreation program to give crew members an opportunity to relax and enjoy an afternoon during the deployment.
“A steel beach picnic gives the crew a positive way to have fun and enjoy themselves while in a deployed environment,” said Megan Villapudua, USS Enterprise recreation specialist.
The carrier has been deployed since March in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and maritime security operations. The Thunderbolts will be the last Marine squadron aboard the USS Enterprise before the carrier is decommissioned completing more than 50 years of service.
Personnel aboard the ship prepared a barbeque, which was served with various refreshments. Along with food, Marines and sailors could participate in events such as sumo-suit matches, golf and tricycle races.
“The flight deck today is lively in a different way,” said Lance Cpl. Casey White, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251 aviation ordnance technician. “Out here there isn’t the excitement of launching aircraft, but it’s the whole crew just having fun and enjoying the day.”
The carrier’s MWR program hosts many weekly events and tournaments open to all personnel aboard the ship. The program also helps Marines and sailors create memorable and safe experiences during port visits by providing force protection-approved hotels and tours.
“We try our best to work hard and provide various recreational opportunities for our military members because they deserve it,” said Villapudua, a native of Sacramento, Calif. “This is our way of showing appreciation for everything they do.”
As the sun began to set, Marines and sailors retired to their duty sections and prepared for the mission ahead of them tomorrow.
“Today was a nice day to just have fun and get re-energized for Operation Enduring Freedom,” said White, a native of Nashville, Tenn.