Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. — Dark clouds filled the sky as members of the Luke Air Force Base community made their way to Fowler Park on base. The Luke Chapel and Luke Airman Fund sponsored a back-to-school bash Aug. 2 to give back to Airmen and their families.

The chapel sponsored the event to assist families with transitioning into the back-to-school season.

“It was amazing to see how many people came out for the bash,” said Senior Airman Kevin Liverpool, 56th Logistics Readiness Squadron cargo movement technician. “The weather scare didn’t stop everyone from showing up and having a good time.”

The event was open to active-duty military, reservists, civilians and dependents. The event offered free school supplies for children who attended and included activities such as train rides, two jump houses, music, games and more.

“Our goal was to make a fun family event for everyone to enjoy,” said Maj. Davis Barns, 56th Fighter Wing deputy wing chaplain. “Any way we can give back we will, and the back-to-school bash is just one way to support the families here at Luke.”

The chapel holds activities throughout the year and hopes they are a help to many family members.

“We want to help families deal with the stressors of school shopping as much as we can,” Barns said. “Helping the Luke community through events like this strengthens the resiliency of our Airmen and their families. The wellbeing of family members directly contributes to the success of Luke’s mission of training the world’s greatest F-35 and F-16 fighter pilots.”