Run for the Fallen

  • Published
  • By Seymour Johnson Company Grade Officer's Council
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  Editor's Note: The Seymour Johnson Company Grade Officer's Council is a Private Organization. It is not a part of the Department of Defense or any of its components and it has no governmental status.

The Seymour Johnson Company Grade Officer's Council (CGOC) will host the Run for the Fallen (RFTF) Sept. 14, 2013.

The run is the base's first 5k and half-marathon event of it's kind and all proceeds will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). The CGOC has chosen to honor the WWP for their support of Service members who have been wounded in combat and the council's $10,000 donation will continue to benefit wounded warriors, according to Capt. Mary Diamond, RFTF coordinator.

"With many Airmen deployed, returning from deployments and preparing to deploy, we knew we wanted to host an event that would benefit not only the WWP, but would honor the service our men and women have given to our nation," Diamond said.

Since registration opened May 17, 2013, more than 300 participants have signed up to run or walk.

"The response is overwhelming," Diamond said. "We are thrilled to have so many join us for this first (run)."

According to members of the CGOC, the RFTF relies on the support of the base and local community.

"It has been absolutely amazing to see the community come together for this event," said 1st Lt. Michelle Werness, RFTF assistant coordinator. "I have received kind words from so many in the local community thanking us for putting this (event together) for such a great cause that affects everyone. I'm very excited for Saturday and cannot wait to see the (outcome) after all the hard work that has gone into planning this run."

More than 35 individuals and businesses have donated money, supplies or provided volunteers to the cause.

Staff Sgt. Benjamin Seekell, 4th Security Forces Squadron Military Working Dog trainer and Purple Heart recipient, will be the keynote speaker and assist in awarding the 5k top finisher medals.

Retired U.S. Army Col. Walter Marm, Medal of Honor recipient, will also address attendees and assist in awarding the half-marathon top finisher medals.