Despite very cold spring weather, about 60 children from the "Nardinihaus," a local orphanage in Pirmasens, Germany, along with approximately 20 children from the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Center, Europe, came out for a day of fun and games and a traditional Easter egg hunt April 20. The various games included an egg-walk, musical chairs, hula hooping, bowling, and a bouncy castle, just to name a few. The older children along with some adults had great fun on the go-cart track. Each child also received a gift bag with toys and candy.

One young first-time participant said she was happy to be there, and she especially enjoyed the egg hunt and all the candy she collected.

After participating in the games, everyone had a chance to warm up over lunch in the USAMMCE Canteen, where hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, and soda were served.

At the end of the afternoon, Col. Thomas C. Slade, USAMMCE commander, cut the beautifully decorated cake and presented the orphanage with a donation of 200 Euros (approximately $260 US). Although USAMMCE has been sponsoring this event since 2008, the partnership with the orphanage dates back to 2004. Over the years, USAMMCE Soldiers and employees have been participating in different events with the orphanage.

This year's celebration was held after Easter in hopes of better and warmer weather. Despite having to wear overcoats and long pants instead of shorts and t-shirts, the children still seemed to have a great time.