On May 20, Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) has a day jam-packed with activities planned for Armed Forces Day 2017. The event is open to the public and admission is free.

"Armed Forces Day is JBLM's way of educating the public of the various roles and functions that JBLM plays in keeping our nation safe," said Colin C. Brooks, Community Activities manager for JBLM's Directorate of Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Special Events. "Units from across JBLM will be on hand with their equipment to promote demonstrations. In the past, displays have included Stryker vehicles, artillery equipment and weapons systems.  The event also provides a festive relax time for our active-duty servicemembers; carnivals, festival foods, games, entertainment and (an) Army vs. Navy rugby match are all on site for enjoyment."

Events and activities will take place in and around Cowan and Memorial Stadiums between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.  For military history buffs, there will be historical reenactments, military displays, a flight museum exhibit and 21 living history groups.

There are plenty of fun, family friendly activities to participate in as well. Younger children will enjoy the petting zoo, pony rides, kids' activities and inflatables. Teenagers are sure to relish the carnival rides, climbing wall and laser tag provided by Field Games.

All that activity is sure to work up an appetite.  Food trucks and vendors will offer your favorite fair food, and those 21 and older can check out the beer garden.

Plenty of roving entertainers will add their own bit of fun to the day. "Blitz," the Seahawks' mascot, is scheduled to make an appearance.  Stilt walkers Leapin' Louie and Duck Rogers will be roaming the grounds. Paine FiField of Old Town Magic is sure to amaze young and old alike with his magic tricks.  Teri Foust, the friendly clown balloon twister, and face painter Megan McKenna will delight the little ones. Vincent Lee, a caricaturist, is on-site to capture your likeness on paper.

For those looking for some exercise, a Volksmarch kicks off at 9 a.m. at the Carey Theater.  You can start the march until 1 p.m. and must finish by 4 p.m.  The noncompetitive 5k or 10k walk is a fun activity that many military families began doing while stationed in Germany. If you like your sports sitting down, head over to Cowan Stadium for the Army vs. Navy rugby match at 11 a.m.

To join in the Armed Forces Day events, follow the information listed below. On a note of caution, be aware that there may be occasional loud cannon fire.

Access and parking information

Guests without an installation access pass should enter JBLM Lewis Main via the DuPont Gate.

Take Interstate 5 to Exit 119. Northbound travelers should stay to the right as they exit the highway; southbound travelers should turn left as they exit the off-ramp and continue east across the overpass to enter the installation.

Vehicles will be directed to a parking area, and occupants will be bussed to and from the event site.  Due to security checks, expect some delays when entering the base.

All vehicles entering the installation are subject to inspection. Civilian vehicles that are selected for inspection will be directed to the inspection area. Vehicles cleared for entry to the base will be directed to a parking area for shuttle bus rides to and from the event site.

Drivers must present a valid license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.

Passengers age 16 and older must present a government-issued photo ID.

Restrictions

Visitors may not bring weapons, alcohol, illegal drugs, fireworks or pets onto the base.

Marijuana is illegal on JBLM.

Military ID card holders may not bring any of these items to the event.

Medical alert and medical assistance animals are permitted.