Junglefest brings adventure to training center

Rappelling down a 20-meter high cliff is an experience to remember. (USMC photo by Lance Cpl. Erik S. Brooks Jr.)

For the first time in more than 15 years, Camp Gonsalves and the Jungle Warfare Training Center will open its gates to Japanese nationals to attend Junglefest 2014.

The rappelling cliff at Camp Gonsalves.

Festival participants will have an opportunity to rappel down a 70 foot (20 meter) high cliff, traverse rope obstacles, learn about jungle survival skills, visit a haunted house, participate in trick or treating, and observe various demonstrations, performances, and entertainment.

These events will help educate festival attendees about the Jungle Warfare Training Center and provide a foundation for future cooperation between Camp Gonsalves and the local Okinawa community. The purpose of the Junglefest is to promote unity, harmony, and friendship between the camp and its Okinawa neighbors – residents of Higashi, Kunigami, Ogimi, Takae, and Aha villages.

Junglefest will be held from Saturday, October 25th, from 11 a.m. ~ 3:30 p.m. at Camp Gonsalves, which is located on Highway 70 on the northern end of Okinawa in the Yanbaru Forest. A five-kilometer run will begin at 9:30 a.m. and a kids’ 800 meter run will start at 10:30 a.m. Runners may register at any Marine Corps Base Fitness Center, and on race day at Camp Gonsalves from 8:30 a.m. ~ 9 a.m., or online at www.facebook.com/jwtcjunglefest. The location of the Junglefest is at https://mapsengine.google.com/map/edit?mid=zbbPi-cF8DfM.k5X5zDbXxgMI

Other obstacle courses are also waiting for visitors to Jungle Fest. (USMC photo by Lance Cpl. Erik S. Brooks Jr.)

07:21 29 Mar , 2024