Cecilia Ramirez traveled across the country to say goodbye to her son as he left on a six-month deployment to Spain. She waved as Cpl. Israel Ramirez boarded a bus July 17 but decided to extend her stay to take advantage of an unusual opportunity.

Her son’s unit, Marine Wing Communication Squadron 28, hosted a Parents Day Friday to allow parents and other family members to get a feel for what their Marines do on a day-to-day basis.

 “I’ve been with him every step of the way since he decided to join the Marines,” said Ramirez. “I didn’t expect that the command would come out and just reach out to you. I think it’s great for all families because it lets the parents know how their children are doing and what they are going through.”

Squadron leadership keeps families in mind during the planning process, said Master Gunnery Sgt. John Hornick, the communications chief for MWCS-28.

 “When we do planning for operations, we make sure that families and readiness are a big part of it because we understand it’s not just spouses who are affected,” said Hornick.

Marines demonstrated the combat fitness test and Marine Corps Martial Arts Program techniques during the event. The families then toured the squadron and installation to learn more about where their Marines work.

“I love it,” said Ramirez’s wife, Maria. “I don’t really get a chance to see what my husband does but to come out here and see what he does is pretty exciting.”

During the tour, Marines gave the families a chance to talk on a PRC-117 radio and see various satellite dishes MWCS-28 works with.

 “I appreciate that the command put in the time to get the resources together to allow the families to feel like a part of the command,” said David Knox, father of Sgt. Micah Knox, a field wireman with MWCS-28.

 Marines said they looked at the day as a nice way to spend more time with their parents.

“This will give them more of an understanding and perspective,” said Knox. “I get to spend the day with them so I’m a pretty happy camper.”

By the end of the day’s activities, Cecilia said she was satisfied with how the day went and had a better understanding for what her son does.

 “I’m very proud of my son,” said Cecilia Ramirez. “I’ve heard nothing but great things about him from MWCS-28, and it’s great to see what he does.”