Third Army celebrates Air Force birthday

Photo By Sgt. Jordan Johnson | Airmen stand united as one following the Air Force Birthday 5K run/walk, Sept. 18. Originally a part of the Army, the Air Force became its own branch of service 64 years ago under the National Security Act of 1947. Third Army is keeping service members ready tonight by building teamwork and cohesion as the transition of personnel and equipment from U.S. Forces – Iraq approaches.  

CAMP ARIFJAN, KUWAIT

09.18.2011

Story by Cpl. Jordan Johnson 

13th Public Affairs Detachment

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait – A 5K run/walk was held here, Sept. 18, to celebrate the 64th birthday of the Air Force.

Originally part of the Army, the Air Force formed its own branch of service, Sept. 18, 1947. Sixty-four years later, airmen were excited to honor their lineage.

“The birthday run signifies a day of celebration,” said Chief Master Sgt. Jesse Schraner, superintendent, 70th Medium Truck Detachment and Tell City, Ind., native. “We’ve had 64 years as a branch of service, and have a proud heritage and history.”

For those serving as airmen, the birthday should mean a great deal. However, it means even more for service members of other branches to show up and support the Air Force, said Schraner.

“It was nice to see all the services come together for the run,” stated Schraner. “At this base, it’s common to see the services working together.”

Airmen of all ranks braved the heat and sand to run, jog or walk the 5K. The significance of the day helped propel many across the finish line.

“I just ran a 10K yesterday, so the run was a little rough on my body,” Airman 1st Class Asia McClain, tropospheric scatter technician, 1st Battalion, 44th Air Defense Artillery Regiment and Chattanooga, Tenn., native said. “It was good motivation for the Army to put this on for us. For the birthday, it’s almost a given I’ve got to come out and represent the Air Force.”

Of the five U.S. forces that protect our great nation, the Air Force is the newest kid on the block, which brings even more significance to this day.

“I’m proud of all those in the Air Force, the youngest service in the U.S.,” said Chief Master Sgt. James Muncy, chief for 387th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron and Jeffersonville, Ind. native. “Being able to come out here and participate in this run makes me proud to be part of the Air Force.”

Third Army is using physical training events to remain ready tonight for missions within the U.S. Army Central Command area of operations, and is shaping the future of the region by building teamwork between all branches of service. The turnout for today’s run/walk was just another example of the camaraderie being built here.

“Thanks to everyone who helped recognize the Air Force’s birthday,” said Schraner.

• Date Taken: 09.18.2011
• Date Posted: 09.22.2011 09:17
• Story ID: 77428
• Location: CAMP ARIFJAN, KW