Rick Herrema Foundation’s Summer Fun Fest Unites 1,300 Fort Hood Families

The Rick Herrema Foundation hosted its inaugural Summer Fun Fest at Fort Hood’s Abrams Physical Fitness Center on July 19, drawing over 1,300 service members, spouses, and children for a day of community and connection.

 

Key Details:

• Event Highlights – Inflatable obstacle courses, yard games, live music, and trusted resilience and wellness booths gave families free, family-focused entertainment.

• Foundation Roots – Launched at Fort Bragg a decade ago, the nonprofit expanded to support one of the Army’s largest active‐duty populations at Fort Hood.

• Leadership Voices – Greta Buccellato, deputy to the garrison commander, praised the partnership for “bridging on‑post and off‑post communities” and strengthening Fort Hood’s support network.

• Personal Mission – Executive Director Eric Ballester, a retired veteran of 10 combat deployments, described the fest as “service after service,” ensuring no military family feels isolated.

 

Beyond the fun, the foundation is funding a permanent recreation center and park near the main gate to host future events that foster resilience and readiness. With plans to expand programming, the Rick Herrema Foundation is cementing its role in building a more connected, supportive Fort Hood community.