Take some time to stop and thank Whidbey Island’s active military, veterans and their families this Saturday at the annual Military Appreciation Picnic at Windjammer Park.

The Sept. 12 celebration is a modern revival of a community tradition that started decades ago. More than 60 years ago, the Navy flew in salmon from Alaska for a city-wide cook-out enjoyed by both the military and civilian communities, according to Beth Munns, Oak Harbor city councilwoman and former Oak Harbor Navy League president.

Volunteers will serve up hotdogs and pulled-pork sandwiches at this year’s event. Live music, face painting and games will entertain both kids and adults.

More than 2,000 people took part in last year’s picnic, not counting the 100 volunteers who pitched in to make the event run smoothly, said Jill Johnston, director of the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce.

Accuweather’s forecast call for temperatures in the high 60s, so this year’s picnic should be just as beautiful as years past.

The Military Appreciation Picnic will take place Saturday, Sept. 12, from noon to 4 p.m. at Windjammer Park. Lunch is free for active duty military and their families, and $5 non military guests.

The kids’ movie Madagascar 2 will be show on a blow up projection screen at Windjammer Park. The Comcast-sponsored movie will begin at 8:30 p.m.. Call the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce, 675-3755 for more information.