FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Community members had a "gut," or good, time at this year's traditional German celebration Sept. 24.
About 3,500 people attended the annual Oktoberfest, where participants were treated to authentic German food, music, games and Family fun on Fort Rucker's festival fields.
"I think it was an absolute success. Everybody I talked to was having a really good time. They really liked the band, The Sonnenschein Express, and Families really liked all the children's crafts," said Kimberly Abeln, Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation annual events coordinator. "There was something for everybody, from little folks who are barely walking, to folks who have been stationed over in Germany."
Some attendees agreed, saying Oktoberfest was a great Family activity.
"It's something fun to do. Community events like Oktoberfest allow us to get to know people here," said Chasity Rominger, a military spouse.
Second Lt. David Sullivan, his wife, Jessie, and their 3-year-old son, Draven, attended for the children's activities.
The festival allowed the Family "to take time off from flight school," said Jessie. David is a student pilot and the couple said they like spending his limited free time together.
A few German natives also attended and compared the event to a miniature version of Germany's two week festival.
"I've been coming out to this event every year. It's kind of like Germany's Oktoberfest," said Ingrid McAlistr, a retired military spouse, originally from Mainz, Germany.
She said she brought her great-granddaughter, Mollie Smead, 2, for the children's games and activities, in hopes of carrying on the Family and cultural tradition.
Upcoming DFMWR events include Comedy Live on Oct. 15 from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at The Landing. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in Bldg. 5700, Rm. 350, or at the door.
The annual Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers Haunted House is Oct. 23 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Fortenberry-Colton Physical Fitness Facility. The admission "cost" is two cans of food or baby items, to be donated to local food lockers.
For more information on either event, visit <a href="http://www.ftruckermwr.com" target="_blank">www.ftruckermwr.com</a>.