Corporal Jason Ellis, his wife, Krysta, and their son, Jasper, are new to Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

Not anymore.

They were heartily welcomed to their new assignment and to the local area during the 2nd Annual Field Day hosted by the Lacey sub-chapter of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA).

Held at the city's 67-acre Regional Athletic Center on Tuesday, the AUSA produced one of the largest events in support of the over 5,500 soldiers and their family members comprising both the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team and the 17th Field Artillery Brigade.

Cpl. Jason Ellis, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, enjoys some time with his son, Jasper, at the 2nd annual Field Day hosted by the Lacey AUSA sub-chapter. Photo credit: J.M. Simpson
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"This is really nice, really great," Krysta Ellis said as her husband played with their son.

"We feel welcome."

The large event featured three sports tournaments for the soldiers, about 60 booth sponsors, free food and beverages, free face-painting, a live DJ, free raffles, bounce houses, kids' activities and treats.

"Our community pulls together to give back for all our brigade does for us throughout the year," wrote Kelly Colter, a military spouse and the sub-chapter's secretary.

"Not only are we excited to pull off this large event, but we are proud to give back to our military families and serving them."

Tuesday's show of community support was six months in the making, and it was led by approximately a dozen business men and women from the Lacey/Olympia area.

"This is a wonderful display of ‘togetherness,'" said Michelle Fuller, president of the Puyallup-Sumner sub-chapter.

"It doesn't get any better than this."

Not far away, Sgt. Ka Man Lo-Giguere and Pfc. Maria Tarazona, 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, worked on their wooden, matchbox projects.

"I think this will be great to put my out-going mail in," commented Tarazona, as she gently drove a small nail into her mailbox.

"It's great to see the kids, friends, the sports - it's just a great day to be out here."

The AUSA is open to all military, including active, National Guard, Army Reserve, government civilians, retirees, Wounded Warriors, veterans, concerned citizens and family members. AUSA welcomes anyone who subscribes to the philosophy of a strong national defense with special concern for the Army. Community businesses and defense industry companies are also welcome.

For more information, visit www.ausa.org.