More than 1,200 active duty, retired and veteran military and families were fed Saturday during the 15th annual Military Appreciation Picnic.

The event, hosted by Oak Harbor Navy League, was held at Windjammer Park in Oak Harbor and was made possible by the donations of local businesses and vendors.

There was plenty of food and fun to be had for all ages.

Live music filled the air, guests danced and children enjoyed the two bouncy houses, balloon tying and a game of corn hole.

The event kicked off with the presentation of colors from the U.S. Naval Sea Cadets and the singing of the National Anthem led by Darin Hand and Jim Reynolds, both retired master chief petty officers.

Also during the event was a live demonstration from the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island Search and Rescue who flew in an MH-60S helicopter to perform a simulated rescue.

“It’s such a great relationship we have with the base and we want to make it better,” said Oak Harbor Mayor Bob Severns. “We can’t thank you enough.”

Event Coordinator Darin Hand echoed those sentiments.

“The City of Oak Harbor has such a dedication to recognizing the men and women of the armed services,” Hand said. “We just want to say thank you and give back to those who have given and sacrificed so many things.”

The event was first held on the first Saturday after the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, and it has been a success every year since, Hand said.

“It was not hard to get the businesses involved, it was just a matter of picking up the phone and telling them what we were doing.”

For some active duty members, it was their first time seeing such an event dedicated to showing such appreciation.

“I’ve never lived in a small town like this before,” said Avionics Technician 3rd Class Justin Seals, of Florida. “This is only the second place I’ve ever lived and this is the country for me. It means a lot to see the community embracing the military.”

James Croft, owner of Toppins Frozen Yogurt, cooled the crowd by offering free frozen yogurt.

“I just love supporting the military,” Croft said. “I was born and raised in this community and it is the best in America. Supporting our military is the most important thing.”

Capt. Geoffrey Moore, NAS Whidbey Island commanding officer, also commented on the ongoing fight against terrorist threats overseas during the event.

“We continue to take the fight to the enemy, currently conducting combat operations in over six different countries around the world,” he said.

In addition to showing support for the service men and women, their families were also recognized at the event.

“This event is also to celebrate the military families who have also sacrificed so much,” said Island County Commissioner Jill Johnson.

State Sen. Barbara Bailey also spoke to the crowd and thanked everyone for coming out and supporting the military.

Jennifer Marzocca, a Coupeville resident and retired Navy chief, commented on how strong and important the bond is on the island between the military and community.

“The businesses donate because they want to recognize the military,” she said. “The community is dedicated not only to just active duty, but retirees too.”

Many more community events are scheduled for the rest of the year in Oak Harbor.

“Oak Harbor is turning into a party city these days,” said Wayne Locke, event host and announcer. “We have so many more events coming up.”

“It is great to see this many people out at an event.”