Saturday’s 10th annual military appreciation picnic served up heaping doses of soda pop, hot dogs, pulled pork, and fun for the several hundred family members and guests who attended the free event held at Oak Harbor’s Windjammer Park.

This year’s picnic was blessed with beautiful weather, a great turnout, and a reminder, if anyone needed it, of why America appreciates her military: Towering above the picnic tables, tents, and crowds, was a huge American flag that hung draped between the crossed ladders of two fire trucks for a 9/11 memorial.

The picnic was a way to show gratitude to military members and their families. The recipients responded in kind with a grace and style that complemented their professional calling.

There was Yvette Esparza, Navy wife and mom, helping her kids paint crafts at the “Paint Your World” table.

“This picnic is a wonderful idea,” said Esparza, wife of EOC Noah Esparza. She explained that her husband is currently serving in Bahrain. “It’s especially timely, since our husbands are deployed right now; this helps our kids feel connected.”

That sentiment was echoed by many others.

AD1 Charles Khulenberg and AWS2 William Rush were there with their families, as well as Rush’s dog, Blue.

“We’re out here with our families, just enjoying the extra weekend of summer,” said Khulenberg, referring to the pleasant 70-degree-plus temperatures and sunny skies. Both men said the pulled pork picnic lunch and soda “tasted great.”

“Now we’re heading over to check out the cars,” said Rush, referring to a car show event taking place at the west end of Windjammer Park.

Yuko Morrow, wife of NCSC Ken Morrow, watched as her son, Kody, tossed a boomerang to his friend, Jonah.

“This is a great service to all of us,” said Morrow. “It’s been good food and fun all afternoon today.”

Topping off the enjoyable day were the great sounds of live music by El Colonel Blues and Paid ‘N Full that filled the air. From jazz to country to classic rock, vocalists backed by guitars, saxophone, drums, and flute offered songs for everyone’s listening enjoyment.

The natural beauty of the setting, and the pleasant weather, made for a stellar occasion. Swimmers filled the lagoon, and sun-bathing abounded in the nearly-perfect temperatures.

AZ2 E.J. Rupert, his wife, Tiffany, and sons Quincy and Dylan were just finishing up their picnic.

“The food was delicious; just great,” said Rupert. Tiffany added, “We’re going to walk around a little now, and enjoy some of the activities going on for the kids.”

And there were a lot of things for kids to do. Small children flocked to the bounce houses set up by the windmill in Windjammer Park. Others enjoyed face painting, balloon animals, craft painting, and a variety of games. Those who felt more daring made their way over to the rock climbing wall by the lagoon.

Clinton Brown, 8, son of former MA2 George Brown, proved that courage comes in small packages, as he fearlessly made his way to the top. “It was an awesome thing to see,” said his dad.

Climbers were coaxed on by the encouraging directions and advice called up to them by the spotters positioned at ground level: “Reach up above your head — that’s it,” “Keep going,” and then, “Great job!”

This picnic abounded with examples of the military helping and encouraging their own. Like many of the climbing wall monitors, they gladly stepped up to volunteer their time and enthusiasm for Saturday’s event.

Molly DeLeon, the skee roll game operator, doled out equal amounts of prizes and complimentary remarks to the youngsters lined up to take turns at her game. Frisbees, bracelets, wind-up toys, boomerangs, and more were there for the taking — and even those who weren’t so lucky, still took home a consolation prize. “That’s okay, here’s something because you tried your best,” said DeLeon, handing a bracelet to a youngster.

“I work for youth services, and my dad is in the military,” said DeLeon. “I was very happy to devote my Saturday afternoon to this, because it’s a great cause.”

The Oak Harbor High School cheerleaders, dressed in their purple and gold uniforms, were also on hand, helping out with many of the children’s activities.

“We like to be involved with our community in this way,” said Desiree Dillaman. “Most of our cheer squad — well over half of us — have a military connection.”

The Navy League, along with Naval Air Station Whidbey Island’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation department, the City of Oak Harbor and the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce hosted the picnic, an annual event. Area business sponsors included Costco and Whidbey Island Bank. Oak Harbor’s Veterans of Foreign Wars Whitehead-Muzzall Post donated the beverages.