Family Day 2016

by Lieutenant Dan Dixon

Every year, Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) extends the invitation to all soldiers’ families to come out and have a fun-filled day of family festivities. On 10 September 2016, under the watchful direction of Major Matt “These aren’t the droids you’re looking for” Johns, the day went off without a hitch… almost.

Despite the ominous dark rain cloud that was looming over what seemed to only be the LTF, and a very dramatic scene involving a generator dying and bouncy castles collapsing in on themselves only 15 minutes before the event kicked off, everything, not surprisingly, buffed out. Big shout out to Cpl Thomas “Bringer of Power” Goodwin for volunteering to come in early, and taking the lead fixing all things generator related.

Once power was restored, the families started arriving and everyone was all smiles. There were bouncy castles, a petting zoo, a whole host of carnival games, and tons of carnival food for everyone to enjoy. Cpl Zach “Candy Man” Marshall so graciously volunteered to work the cotton candy machine for all to enjoy, and Tpr Tomasz “How does this thing work?” Kokoszka slaved behind the mini-donut machine. After stuffing their faces, the kids got a chance to see what it is like to be run through an obstacle course with a real life MCpl “motivating” them all along the way. Many thanks to MCpl Jesse “Kiddie-Commando” Bolzan for taking the lead on that and keeping those kids extra motivated to get through it and burn off all that sugar. I can’t say for certain, but I am pretty sure he was having more fun than the kids running it!

After having a fill of carnival games, there was a chance for everyone to get back at much of the Regiment’s leadership in the infamous dunk tank. Troop Leaders, Sergeants-Major, and even the CO and RSM “volunteered” to get in the dunk tank and have a chance to cool off. Warrant Officer Larry “When is it my turn?” Troop took it upon himself to ensure his troop leader Lt Alex “Actually had to google how to cook potatoes” Young had a chance to cool off from the hot sun! How thoughtful of him!

All in all the day was a great success! There were tons of cool prizes for people to win, and everyone seemed to leave the event with a big smile on their face!