Oceanside CA— The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce is proud to host Armed Forces Day “Operation Appreciation” on Saturday, May 16, 2015 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Oceanside Pier Amphitheater, 300 North The Strand. Each Armed Forces Day, Operation Appreciation is an opportunity to say “thank you” to active duty military and their families for their service and sacrifice. Active-duty military from Camp Pendleton and other local military bases are invited down to the Oceanside Pier for a party of music, carnival rides and food.
Operation Appreciation began after 9/11 and has become a community tradition that draws 10,000 people every year to this festival. This year the event has grown with nearly 40 local and corporate sponsors and will be presented by Genentech and Pacific Marine Credit Union.
With that growth, the Oceanside Chamber has expanded the Fun Zone adding to fun with additional carnival rides and food by Domino’s Pizza. The Armed Forces YMCA will provide volunteers who will do face painting and tattoos. SeaWorld will provide a favorite mascot, Shamu, who will be available to pose for pictures.
With a valid military id, active duty military and their dependents, will receive a wristband which will provide them access to free carnival rides and great food.
While this event seeks to thank active duty military and their dependents, we invite members of the general public who attend to show their appreciation, to meet and thank the service members and their families. The public is invited to participate and join in the celebration. Tickets can be purchased to ride the carnival rides and food is also available for purchase at a variety of vendors.
Opening Ceremonies will begin at the Pier Amphitheater at 11:00 a.m. with the Oceanside Fire Department Honor Guard presenting colors and North Terrace Elementary School Choir performing three patriotic songs. Local dignitaries and military officials will be on hand to greet the crowds and support this event. Members of the San Diego Chargers and the Chargers Girls are also scheduled to appear (subject to change).
After opening ceremonies, food service will begin in the Oceanside Community Center– free to active duty military and dependents. There will be hamburgers, hot dogs and chicken wings provided by local restaurants, including Hunter Steakhouse, Hooters and Famous Dave’s, served throughout the day.
The fun continues as live entertainment by The Heroes will rock the crowd from the Amphitheater. Camp Pendleton’s Mechanized Museum will provide land and amphibious vehicles for display. The EOD Team (Explosive Ordinance Disposal) will also be on a hand demonstrating their equipment.
Join us for the fun and show your appreciation to the brave men and women who fight to keep us free!
For more information call the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce at 760-722-1534 or visit www.OceansideOperationAppreciation.com
Oceanside Chamber of Commerce to Host Armed Forces Day “Operation Appreciation”
April 16, 2015
