Sailors assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) and their friends and family attended Truman's annual command picnic at Naval Air Station Oceana Dam Neck Annex, July 17.

"This was the third picnic I've been to and it was the best," said S. Kelley, a Truman spouse. "I think it brought everyone closer together and gave them a moment to relax and enjoy themselves, their family, and build camaraderie."

More than 2,000 people attended the event, organized by Truman's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) division. It included food, music, various contests, paintball, a rock-climbing wall, pony rides, bowling, and arts and crafts - all free of charge to Sailors and their guests.

"It was quite a big turn out," said T. Dedose, Truman's MWR fun boss. "It was a great time for the Sailors to de-stress, have fun and hang out with family and friends. The picnic allowed the crew an opportunity to get off the ship and get away from the stress of work. I feel this event boosted the morale for many service members."

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman D. J. Beverly agreed wholeheartedly with the fun boss.

"It was awesome," Beverly said. "I got to hang out with my shipmates, play paintball and go on the rock wall."

Capt. R. B. Scholl, Truman's commanding officer, explained the importance of having an event like the command picnic before deployment.

"We do a lot of things on the ship that keep us busy and working really hard," the captain said. "We don't get a chance to have a lot of fun together when we are focused on work. This was a great time to be with family and see people in a different setting, and really just enjoy ourselves a little bit while we're in port and have fun prior to getting underway."

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman D. J. McClelland agreed that the picnic was a great way to build morale and friendship.

"It brings everyone together and boosts morale," he added. "The picnic also helps improve camaraderie around the ship.

Truman is currently conducting shipboard training and maintenance in preparation for deployment.

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