MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Service members and their families danced and enjoyed live entertainment during the Security Battalion’s annual Family Day at The Cantina located on Del Mar Beach, Aug.15.

The luau kicked off with professional style Hawaiian dancers entertaining families at the event with the hula and a Tahitian style dance. During the performance, the dancers got family members involved by pulling them on stage for a friendly hula contest.

“Getting the Marines to go up on stage and dance was so funny, said Monica E. Baker, military dependent. “This is a day that I will not forget.”

 In addition to Marines and their families enjoying a genuine authentic Hawaiian luau, they also enjoyed authentic food, a sand castle building contest, volleyball tournaments, and several other activities.

“There is nothing more enjoyable than spending the weekend at the beach with your family, said MSgt. Brent L. Sherrell, programs chief, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. “My family and I love attending our battalion functions mainly because they are so much fun.”

The fun-filled day concluded with a half-a-pie eating contest that 20 Marines participated in, with its winner taking home a $50 Marine Corps Exchange gift card.

The event was a well coordinated effort that required a staff of more than 20 individuals to set up the games and prepare for the feast, said Elena R. Joa, family readiness officer, security battalion.

 “Having Marines come out this weekend with their families really shows a lot,” said Col. Stephen R. Dinauer, commanding officer, Security Battalion. “It shows that our battalion is a home for all Marines and we will always be there to support one another.”