MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. – The barracks halls were quieter than usual. The occasional conversation struck in the laundry room, and the sound of a Marine on the gaming set occasionally slipped from under the door. The activity at the duty desk now left sparse, rooms temporarily vacated – some half empty. Wall lockers left skimmed of clothes with racks tidy or disheveled by eager Marines off to spend the holidays with loved ones. The atmosphere of a quiet barracks room can be welcomed, but less often during the holidays.

On December 19, 2024, the remaining Marines left their stagnant barracks rooms behind them. As they walked down the quiet hallways and exited the dormant brick building, they could hear the familiar banter of Marines coming from the Main Side Recreation Center. They would enter that room to discover a space decorated for the holiday season, music playing, and they could smell the warm food in the atmosphere; gifts were available, and Marines and volunteers welcomed each person who entered.

“It’s all about showing our Marines that they’re not alone and that the Marine Corps family cares about their well-being,” said Shaneekwa Christopher, an event organizer with Marine Corps Community Services, who assisted in putting together this event, Holiday in the Barracks, “especially during what can be a challenging time of year for those far from home.”

Marines had all different kinds of reasons for staying in the barracks for the holidays.

“I need to save some of my leave days for my brother’s wedding next year. I’m turning 21, and [I have a graduation to get to],” said Lance Cpl. Jacob H. Hollingsworth, a dynamic component mechanic. “I need to save some of my leave days to go to those events.”

For more than 25 years, the Single Marine Program, aided by MCCS and installation leadership, held this event to bring cheer to the Marines who couldn’t make it home for the holidays. Each year, numerous volunteer groups and local vendors make donations and contribute resources to the cause.

“It’s not uncommon to see Marines who might have been feeling lonely at the start of the day leave [this event] with a renewed sense of connection and morale,” Christopher explained. “The bonds that form during the event can have a lasting impact on their well-being, and it’s incredibly rewarding to witness.”

From recruit training to their last duty station, Marines spend much of their time in close quarters, sharing hardships that are exclusive to service members. The Marines who stayed back from their homes are another example of a shared hardship. However, events like the Holidays in the Barracks remind Marines of the family they joined by stepping on the yellow footprints.

“It’s a home away from home,” said Sgt. Isaiah Morris, a helicopter engine mechanic. “I’m not too lonely being here at the barracks. I have friends and family around just in case I ever need to hang out with someone.”