Foundation supports international military family event in KC

IMS and their families arrive at the Main Event experience in north Kansas City.

International Military Students (IMS) along with their family members, attending the CGSOC Class of 2024
at the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth were provided an opportunity to meet for a “Welcome Back to School” event conducted at the Main Event in the Zona Rosa Family Entertainment Center in North Kansas City on Jan. 28, 2024. The 44 international families in attendance had the opportunity to enjoy hours of unlimited activities on the high ropes course, laser tag and bowling, as well as a traditional American lunch and hours of video game play. The CGSC Foundation-sponsored event allowed them to celebrate one last time before their return to their studies after the winter holiday break.

IMS from Poland and Albania and family members enjoy unlimited game play in friendly competition throughout the Main Event.

IMS from Poland and Albania and their family members enjoy unlimited game play in friendly competition throughout the Main Event.

Many of the IMS family members were afforded the opportunity to enjoy the newest in video games, competing against one another and continuing to develop bonds with their classmates and their families that span five continents.

“It was a great time to spend with family, especially my youngest children, after so many months of studying and focusing on our CGSC academics,” said German IMS Lt. Col. Michael Linder. “I am so thankful for the event and for the Foundation’s support to our IMS cohort. – We hope that it can continue for future classes.”

Other IMS families opted to compete in the Lazer Tag Arena against other IMS Families and locals at the Main Event that day. The highlight for most was the challenging high ropes course that sits high along the ceiling throughout the venue. Spouses and children overcame many fears along the course and numerous IMS showed off their skills as they sailed high above the crowd that were enjoying the Kansas City Chiefs AFC win over the Baltimore Ravens.

Families enjoy unlimited fun on the high ropes course.

David Bornn, the Field Studies Program Chair from the Fort Leavenworth International Military Student Office, said the IMS Class of 2023-24 thanks the Foundation for providing this opportunity for building future relationships, family and friendship through fun. Jim Fain, director of the CGSC International Military Student Division, also thanked CGSC Foundation Interim CEO/President Lora Morgan and Director of Operations Laurie Morgado for their outstanding work in making this dream become a reality.

“These events are the ones that will be remembered for many years to come by all IMS and their families,” Bornn said. “We couldn’t do it without those who are a part of the CGSC foundation and the trust and support of the Foundation CEO and board of trustees. Thank you very much for this opportunity!”

IMS from five regions around the world duel in a Bowing Tourney that left no pin unturned.

Morgan also extended thanks to the two Foundation donors who made the event possible – John Miller, Sr., and John Wagner – who are both members of the Arter-Roland National Security Forum, a monthly forum hosted by the Foundation’s Simons Center in downtown Kansas City.