NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan – Twelve years have passed since America was devastated by the events that took place Sept. 11, 2001. In commemoration of those affected by this tragedy, Naval Air Facility Atsugi’s Team Red, White and Blue hosted a 9/11 memorial flag run.
The event, which began shortly after morning colors, consisted of nearly 40 people taking shifts running throughout the installation with the American flag in hand until evening colors.
Many participants said the run was just a way to show their patriotism, but for some, the event held a deeper and more meaningful purpose.
“I’m out here today for more than just a run,” said Commander, Fleet Air Forward Logistics Director Faron Cordrey. “[I’m here] to motivate those around me and to help our friends on this base understand that we will not forget what happened. We will always remember those who we lost in service to our nation.”
For Holly Troxel, a local spouse of a deployed service member, the run was a way to show support for her husband’s sacrifices and service.
“Our goal is to be here for the veterans wherever and whenever they need us,” she said.
According to Cordrey, Team Red, White and Blue was created to give back to veterans by helping them reintegrate to the civilian world, and also to build camaraderie between veterans worldwide. Since its inception, the group has recruited more than 19,000 members across the globe.
As the run drew to a close and the last two participants were cheered on by their peers as they approached Halsey Gym with the flag still waving through the air, Cordrey reflected on the day’s events.
“This was so much more than I ever expected. When we first took sign ups, the sheet was basically empty, but you wouldn’t have known that by today’s turnout. It was truly an amazing experience,” he said. “People who had no idea what we’re about came and joined in our run just because they saw the flag and they knew that this was something that they, as patriots, wanted to participate in. That’s an amazing feeling.”