Celebrating Reading and Community: Usha Vance’s Special Visit to Camp Pendleton
On July 12, 2023, approximately 200 children from active-duty Marine families at Camp Pendleton experienced a memorable day filled with reading and creativity, thanks to Second Lady Usha Vance. Gathered around Vance, along with Marine Col. Charles Dudik, the young attendees enjoyed an interactive reading of “Norman and the Smell of Adventure.” This event, part of the “Books on Bases” initiative, was organized by Blue Star Families in partnership with Walt Disney to uplift and support military families, demonstrating the community’s commitment to those who serve.
The “Books on Bases” program aims to bridge the gap between military families and their communities. As Maggie Meza, Executive Director of the San Diego Chapter of Blue Star Families, emphasized, the initiative is designed to remind families that they are not alone and have a supportive network behind them. The joyous atmosphere was enhanced by a surprise appearance from Stitch, Disney’s beloved alien character, much to the delight of the children. They eagerly lined up for photos before receiving books to take home, making a significant impression on their day.
In addition to the reading session, the event included fun arts and crafts activities, where Vance joined in to help children create friendship bracelets and decorate felt flags. Each child received a copy of the book featured during the reading, enabling them to revisit the story with their families. A book fair was also set up, allowing families to explore a variety of titles to enjoy throughout the summer. “Thank you to the Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton and to its partners for inviting me to join Blue Star Families in celebrating reading,” Vance shared, clearly appreciating the significance of the day.
Among those attending was Rebekah McCoy, whose five children were particularly excited for the event. The family donned Disney-themed outfits, with McCoy herself wearing a Mickey sweater. The event’s magical atmosphere resonated with her, especially given her ties to Disneyland and the challenges military families face. McCoy, whose husband is a gunnery sergeant affiliated with the 7th Engineer Support Battalion, expressed her gratitude for military-relevant events that foster community connections. “It’s really meaningful for her to come here and engage with us,” she said, reflecting on how often military families might feel isolated.
Col. Dudik also spoke highly of the event, underlining its dual significance as both a celebration of reading and an opportunity for connection among families. He reiterated that the event was a heartfelt reminder of the recognition and appreciation that military families deserve for their sacrifices. Meza echoed this sentiment, sharing her personal experiences of moving frequently while raising children in military contexts. Her goal was to create enjoyable experiences for military children while reinforcing their ties to each other and their communities.
Blue Star Families, established in 2009, aims to address the myriad challenges military families encounter. By organizing events like the one at Camp Pendleton, the organization seeks to minimize feelings of isolation and emphasize the presence of a caring community. Meza noted that they consistently rely on feedback from military families to shape their programs and services. Efforts are also made to provide free activities, especially relevant given rising living costs. By promoting family moments that encourage connection and support, Blue Star Families actively combats the loneliness that can accompany military life.
As families made their way home, McCoy observed her daughter Kennedy engrossed in the new book she’d received earlier. The experience clearly left an impression, fostering both a love for reading and a sense of belonging. Usha Vance’s visit was a beacon of support for military families, reminding them that their sacrifices are acknowledged and valued by the wider community. Through the initiatives of organizations like Blue Star Families and the engagement from representatives like Vance, military families at Camp Pendleton found warmth, joy, and a reminder that they are truly seen and heard.
