Photo By Sgt. Joshua Holt | Runners and walkers in the Armed Forces 5k Run make their way towards the final...... read more read more
CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait - The Armed Forces Day 5K race was held May 19, at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The Morale, Welfare and Recreation race allowed an estimated 900 participants the opportunity to run in a competitive atmosphere and celebrate the true meaning behind Armed Forces Day.
The race was held to celebrate unity and appreciation for all branches of the military for their service to the country.
“I hope they get a sense of camaraderie and unity out of the run,” said Kevin Eddlemon, fitness center lead. “They are all on the same team and they are all US military.”
The race gave participants a chance to do physical training in a different environment than usual.
“Our troops are in the best shape of any soldiers in the world,” said Eddlemon.
Additionally, the race gave service members the opportunity to run with members from all five branches of the military, as well as civilians.
“Besides the exercise, it’s good for everyone to get together,” said Sgt. Francisco Gonzalez, Standard Army Maintenance System – Enhanced non-commissioned officer in charge, A Company, 4th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery, 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, Fort Hood,Texas.
Spc. Bwambale Frank, 59th Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear Company, 22nd Chemical Battalion, 48th Chemical Brigade from Fort Hood was the first place finisher in the 3.1 mile race with a time of 18 minutes and 5 seconds.
“I really like it because it is something to keep us going,” said Frank. “Races like this give us as soldiers the opportunity to meet other people.”
Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson created Armed Forces Day in 1949 to celebrate the unification of all five branches of the military under the Department of Defense. Later, President John F. Kennedy recognized the day as an official holiday in 1962.
Events like The Armed Forces Day 5K race help ensure that Third Army soldiers are ready tonight.
| Date Taken: | 05.19.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 05.24.2012 05:40 |
| Story ID: | 88919 |
| Location: | CAMP ARIFJAN, KW |
| Web Views: | 144 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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