Troops end festival in style

For almost six hours Thursday, military personnel, as well as reservists from the Echo Company were treated to live entertainment, courtesy of various local artists and students.

Before calling it a night, the troops surprised everyone and took center stage for a special number to cap Troop Fest 2004 at the American Memorial Park.

Clad in camouflage military wear, the members of Echo Company, 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry closed the night by singing their “Go For Broke” song, and just before walking off the stage, the troops were in for a special treat themselves as family members joined them on stage for a special number dedicated to the soldiers.

With hands waving in the air, wives, moms, children, and organizers rocked the speakers with the song entitled “Voices and Care.”

The song even featured a brief solo by Special Assistant for Special Programs Galvin Deleon Guerrero.

Before singing, Company E Company Commander Capt. Franklin Babauta said a few words about his company and expressed thanks to all supporters. He also asked everyone to support those soldiers who weren’t able to come home for the holidays.

Troop Fest wound up attracting a solid response from the community, with people taking time off from busy schedules to display support.

“I’ve been doing concerts…this is the best event ever,” Deleon Guerrero said. “The community response was great. On a night like this, where there are many company parties, novenas, or family gatherings, people took time to make it here and show their support, and that was great for all.”

U.S. Marine Private George Fleming, who arrived a couple of days ago after completing combat training, was astonished at the amount of support the troops are getting.

“It’s just very heartwarming,” he said. “I’m going to be leaving on [December] 31st…seeing something like this, it’s a good feeling.”

Fellow Marine Private Kenneth Ichihara was also proud of the turnout and the event, citing that “it’s very gratifying.” Ichihara will be leaving for Camp Pendleton on Jan. 11, 2005 for advance training.

Marines Pfc. Victor Diaz, Pvt. Jason Cepeda, and Pvt. Guil Lifoifoi were also pleased with the event. During their brief stay, the group assisted in recruiting for the U.S. Marines. Diaz is scheduled to leave for MOS training in North Carolina on Dec. 29, while Lifoifoi leaves on Jan. 3 for Camp Pendleton as well.

Family Readiness Group advisor Celina Babauta was all smiles, citing that the event was a success. “Everything is going great,” she said. “The soldiers are kind of tired, but they’re staying and enjoying. They’re savoring every moment.”

Local artist Candido Taman took the stage earlier in the evening, and blew the audience away with an a cappella version of “Oh Holy Night”.

Other groups that performed were Split Attitude, What Ever Band, Sebastian Camacho, Nolas Kaliga, a group organized by Sam Joyner, Garapan Girls Scouts and more.

The event also featured filmed messages from various organizations and families expressing their feelings for the troops.

The event was recorded on DVD and copies will be distributed for free to all military personnel with ties to the Commonwealth. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go toward defraying airfare costs for the troops as well as contribution to Iraqi children.