Linda Petrey Carlson

Moving to a military community can be a challenge, especially when "back home" is vastly different from your new assignment. Truth be told, it is almost ALWAYS vastly different, and making the adjustment can be difficult, at best. Because of that challenge, I'd like to share information about a couple of the wonderful destinations and activities of Central Texas, with the hope that you'll make a quick transition from "new arrival" to "we call Texas home"!

Have you ever been to a drive-in movie theater? Many of us recall the days when going to the drive-in was oh-so-much more than just "going to the movies". It was a chance to relax, visit with friends, be entertained, and maybe even build a few memories. I fondly recall the neighborhood teens packing into the El Camino belonging to the boy next door, and heading to one of the Killeen drive-ins. Years later, while stationed at Eglin AFB, FL, I was able to take my small son to a local drive-in, and just recently, my grandson learned to appreciate the joys of watching a movie under the stars.

Where am I going with this? To the drive-in, of course! Central Texas offers a choice of two theaters within easy driving distance. The "Central Texas Drive-In Theater", located at 4001 S. Fort Hood Street in Killeen, is approximately five miles from the Fort Hood main gate. It opened in 2005 in the same location as the old "440 Drive-In", which was open from 1969 to 1989. For more information about this theater and show times, please visit http://www.drive-ins.com/theater/txtkil2/heard=ge or call 254-616-6400. Our next drive-in choice is the "Last Drive-In Picture Show" in Gatesville, located at 2912 S. Highway 36. In addition to first run movies, this theater features a miniature golf course and a playground for entertainment before the movie begins. There's also an indoor theater, if outdoor viewing isn't for you. This drive-in has been open since 1950, and retains all the charm of yesteryear. The drive to get there may be a bit longer, but it's well worth the trip. Visit them at http://www.drive-ins.com/showing/txtlast for more information.

There are many other drive-ins in Texas, but these are our closest. So, pack up the kids and the lawn chairs, or make a pallet in the back of the truck and head out to enjoy a night at the movies. You may find there's nothing quite as enjoyable as popcorn and soda under a starlit night in Central Texas.

Welcome to Fort Hood.