CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. _ “There are three things you need to know before we start. First, we’re going to have a pretty slow pace so we can stay together and have fun. Second, we’re running to the [2nd Marine Logistics Group] building, so we’re going to need people to ring the bell out front. Lastly, we’re running through the MLG building. Once we get in there we’re going to turn left … there’s a door that leads outside and I pray that it’s unlocked.”
Navy Capt. Michael Sokolowski, the commanding officer of 2nd Medical Bn., Combat Logistics Regiment 25, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, addressed his Marines and sailors gathered at Soiffert Field early in the morning Dec. 20, for one last physical training session before the holiday break.
This wasn’t the usual humdrum PT routine that Marines and sailors have become accustomed to though.
Service members with the battalion were encouraged to wear Santa hats and participants also tied bells to their left shoe so they could ring in the holiday together.
“My favorite part of the run was definitely getting to run through the MLG building,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Geoffrey A. Polizoti, the communications chief for the communications section of 2nd Medical Bn. “I would definitely like to do that again, and maybe run through both levels of it.”
Upon completing the run, service members gathered around Sokolowski for a few final words.
“Remember your shipmates over this holiday season, make sure they either have somewhere to go, or invite them to your home,” said Sokolowski.