City fetes its

military personnel

The Oak Harbor community pulled together its resources Saturday to thank its military residents for the time, bravery and the sacrifices they have made for their country.

“It’s one of the best city-base team partnerships in the Navy,” Rear Adm. Jim Symonds, commander, Navy Region Northwest, said. “I’m very happy to be here and I’m very proud of Oak Harbor.”

From the stage, Capt. Gerral David, commanding officer, Whidbey Island Naval Air Station, thanked the 18,000 people that work at the naval station.

Mayor Jim Slowik spent most of the day alongside a hot grill cooking hot dogs, but stole away for a moment to speak from the stage, following David.

“It’s hard to separate military from the tradition of Oak Harbor,” he said, before returning to the barbecue.

In all, 960 dogs rolled across the grill on Saturday and into the tummies of picnic attendees, except for the several dozen that were spared for the hot dog eating contest.

DeVere Dudley, 13, raised his arms up in victory after being the first to polish off three hot dogs in the kids’ division.

First place winner in the adult division, Ryan Frierdich, claimed victory by opening his mouth wide and sticking out his tongue to show a crowd of curious on-lookers that he had finished his dogs first.

There were more than just hot dogs at the celebration. More than 400 pounds of smoked pork filled hundreds of pulled-pork sandwiches. Despite shoulder surgery, Rodger Anglum kept the smoked pork tradition alive for the sixth consecutive year. Cole slaw, chips and drinks rounded out the picnic fare.

MilitaryWives.com, a Web site that offers information and support to military spouses, supplied 16 cakes decorated with decals of the American flag and images that represent all military branches.

“We support this every year,” said Dawn Robinson. “Our contribution is cakes, cookies, time and service.”

Angelo’s Caffe supplied 12 dozen chocolate chip cookies to accompany the pieces of cake.

More than 100 volunteers showed up to help carry out the event, which fed 1,500 people and entertained about 2,000

Although there weren’t many leftovers, what food and drinks remained after the picnic were donated to North Whidbey Help House, said Beth Munns.

“Nothing went to waste,” she said.

Bruce Guy’s Project played music throughout the event, and the celebration was capped off with an outdoor showing of Bee Movie, sponsored by Comcast.

Support for the event came from the city of Oak Harbor, chamber of commerce, Navy League and Moral Welfare and Recreation Department from NAS Whidbey, Munns said.

“Businesses, citizens and nonprofits all came together,” Munns said. “That’s what truly makes this a wonderful event.”