From Marine To Mentor
October 21, 2026Engaging with Andrea—A Thrilling Trunk and Treat!
A Thrilling Trunk and Treat!
Last Thursday, four HVAF staff members worked up a sweat diligently learning a simplified version of the “Thriller” dance for the Veteran Engagement Committee’s annual Trunk and Treat. Early Saturday afternoon, staff and volunteers returned for more practice and were transformed into zombies by HVAF employee Abby.
A few hours later, Warman began filling with costumed kids eager to visit our thirteen decorated trunks for candy. To my delight, two kids arrived dressed as Michael Jackson! They didn’t know about our “Thriller” performance, and we didn’t know we’d have two MJs in the crowd.
Before the dance, 60 veterans and members of veteran families enjoyed walking tacos, cupcakes, and cookies while visiting trunks featuring Harry Potter, sharks, Candy Land, Back to the Future, and other spooky themes!
Suddenly, the intro to “Thriller” rang out through the crisp fall air, and staff and volunteers disguised as zombies crept toward the center of the trunk displays. In flash-mob style, the group began dancing in unison as families cheered, laughed, and watched the moves. Several children joined in for an encore, with the two Michael Jacksons leading the way!
To end the evening, attendees voted for their favorite costume and trunk. The Michael Jacksons moonwalked to victory in the costume category, and the Harry Potter trunk must have cast a spell on voters because it won the trunk category! Thirty-five staff members and volunteers helped make the event another success. Families reported having a blast and being “thrilled”!
