USO Quantico Catches ’Em All at Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary Bash with Hundreds of Military Families

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. — Quantico transformed into a haven for aspiring Pokémon Masters on Feb. 7, 2026, as more than 450 service members and military families streamed into Quantico Middle-High School for USO Quantico’s Third Annual National Pokémon Day bash, an energetic celebration of the franchise’s 30th anniversary that blended nostalgia, community, and a whole lot of friendly competition.

For one colorful Saturday afternoon, the school’s halls buzzed with wide-eyed excitement as kids darted past larger-than-life 3-D printed Pokémon, parents compared card stacks with surprising intensity, and families immersed themselves in a world where every corner promised a new adventure. Part collector’s convention and part friendly tournament, the event offered something special for fans of every generation.

“I didn’t know what to expect from the Pokémon event, but what I saw was community,” said Sgt. Maj. Liam D. Williams, Sergeant Major for Marine Corps Base Quantico. “Service members and families connecting. Kids building friendships despite frequent moves. I met Marines who collected as children and now share that experience with their own kids. USO events like this strengthen our installation and build resilience.”

Content Creators Bring Star Power and Heart

Headlining the day were popular Pokémon content creators Phill Faust of Beard Dad Cardz and Ross Cooper of Coop’s Collection, whose presence brought an extra layer of excitement, especially for young collectors eager to trade, snap photos, and acquire autographed cards.

“I’m really honored to be part of this event with the USO at Marine Corps Base Quantico,” said Ross. “Getting to spend time with military families and give back in even a small way is incredibly meaningful.”

Faust echoed the sentiment.

“These families give so much every day,” said Phil. “If we can help bring some joy, connection, and fun into their lives, even for a little while, that’s what it’s all about.”

Both creators donated cards, traded pulls with kids, and spent hours meeting families, personal actions that delighted parents and children alike.

Activities Designed for Adventure

Across the building, activities pulsed with energy. A mini scavenger hunt sent families racing to track down hidden Pokémon. Snack stations offered “trainer-approved” fuel, keeping little explorers energized as they moved between expert tables, dedicated trading zones, and friendly battle stations. For many kids, the chance to expand their decks or test their skills against new friends was the highlight of the day.

“The best part has been getting to trade cards and meet new people,” said 11-year-old Wyatt, who attended with his stepfather, Marine Corps Master Sgt. Lindsey McLaughlin. “I hope I’m able to attend with my family next year.”

The McLaughlin Family, who drove more than an hour from Naval Support Facility Indian Head, Maryland, said the experience was worth the trip.

“Everyone’s been super friendly,” said Lindsey. “I think it’d be great if other installations incorporated something like this as well.”

An Event Born from Community and Growing Fast

The USO Quantico Pokémon Day celebration has grown significantly over the past three years. USO Quantico Center Operations Specialist Tai Jacobs, the driving force behind the project, said this year’s event nearly doubled in size, requiring a larger venue and drawing families from far beyond the base.

“One of the main reasons I started this event is because it’s hard for kids to get Pokémon cards in stores nowadays,” explained Tai. “We expanded beyond just this base, because I know there’s a need, and the kids really enjoy it.”

Jacobs also said the event offers more than entertainment; it helps kids build connections as they navigate the challenges of military life.

“I had a couple people tell me how this helps their military kids build relationships when they’re moving to a new base,” said Tai. “It creates friendships through something they all love.”

The reveal of the event’s special guests only added to the excitement.

“Parents were thrilled,” said Tai. “Just them coming out of the kindness of their heart and donating cards, it means so much to us.”

A Tradition of Giving Back

For Marine Corps Systems Command’ s Maj. Ryan Moore, who has supported the event for three years with his company Sapling Six, the day holds deep personal meaning.

“The whole thing started with my son when he was nine,” said Ryan. “Pokémon was one of the earliest and easiest things we shared together.”

Moore has made supporting the USO event part of his mission, donating hundreds, if not thousands, of cards and Pokémon memorabilia to help kids build decks, discover rare pulls, and create meaningful memories.

“These kids are eventually going to PCS and take their trade binders and memories of this event with them,” said Ryan. “Hopefully the USO can expand this to other locations.”

Watching kids light up when discovering the value of a card, or trading for a long sought after addition, is what keeps him coming back.

“They’re just fun to be around,” said Ryan. “This has become a staple for Quantico.”

A Day to Remember

Between the star creators, prize-packed giveaways, friendly battles, and the constant hum of excitement, the USO Quantico Pokémon Day party delivered exactly what fans hoped for; a chance to step inside a world of shared interests and lasting memories.

“It’s really impressive that the USO puts this on,” said Lindsey. “The kids obviously love it, and so do the rest of us Pokémon players.”

With turnout growing every year, and families asking when the next event will be, USO Quantico’s Pokémon Day bash has evolved from a small gathering to an annual tradition, one that blends play, nostalgia, and community into something that feels downright magical.

Visit the USO Southeast Flickr page for additional imagery from this community event.