HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --
(Editor's Note: Last names are being withheld due to operational requirements)
The annual Zoo After Hours is a family-fun event that aims to promote family education to Holloman Airmen and their families. The event, organized by the 49th Force Support Squadron, was held from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Alameda Park Zoo in Alamogordo, New Mexico on Sept. 24, 2016.
The event served 936 people, and showcased various on- and off-base support agencies, and non-profit organizations. It was open to all active duty military personnel and their families.
“The purpose of this event is to bring families together, and to bring attention to all of the services that we provide, such as the child development center, the youth & teen center, and the Airman & Family Readiness Center, as well as those offered by other agencies,” said Andre, the 49th FSS Child Development Center director. “We want to create an inclusive environment where parents and families can learn about all the different agencies that can support them.”
Guests were free to roam the zoo grounds after hours and view its various animal enclosures. A variety of child-friendly activities were also added including a bouncy house, an obstacle course, a giant inflatable slide, balloon animals, glitter stickers and a DJ. Pizza and snacks, including shaved ice and popcorn, were provided free of charge to guests.
Event volunteers were Holloman Airmen and cadets from the Air Force Junior ROTC at Alamogordo High School.
“It’s really important for us to give back--to show our support for those who support us,” said Airman 1st Class Addison, a Zoo After Hours event volunteer and aircrew egress technician with the 54th Material Maintenance Squadron. “This event is fun. The kids really enjoy it, and it’s a great way to boost morale.”