Photo By Cliff Williams | Religious Program Specialist 2nd Class Bradley Benoit and Construction Electrician...... read more read more
GULFPORT, Miss. – On Saturday, May 9, Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133 took the opportunity to volunteer at the 2015 Special Olympics Summer Games held at Keesler Air Force Base. More than 1,000 athletes from all over Mississippi competed in a day's worth of events for medals and adulation from family, volunteers, coaches, and sponsors.
Eleven Seabees were all smiles as a part of the softball throw and award presenters.
“It was a pretty good time and interaction with the athletes was really fun,” said Electrician Technician 3rd Class Tia White. “This is the first time I’ve volunteered for the Special Olympics, and I have no doubt I will do it again the next time the opportunity arises.”
Volunteers are the backbone of the Special Olympics movement. They are coaches, trainers, officials, event organizers, fundraisers, and managers. They can also be unified partners playing alongside athletes with intellectual disabilities or fans cheering in the stands.
These Seabees were just a small fraction of volunteers for the event, which has been ongoing since 1968 when Eunice Kennedy Shriver saw how unjustly and unfairly people with intellectual disabilities were treated.
“I don’t think people understand the magnitude the Special Olympics are to the people who participate,” said Religious Program Specialist 2nd Class Bradley Benoit, a member of the Religious Ministry Team, who helps coordinate volunteer events for the command. “Everyone here isn't here because they have to be; they're here because they genuinely care and want these individuals to excel."
At the end of each wave, NMCB 133 Seabees presented the winners with ribbons and medals.
“It’s was just awesome to see these athletes eyes light up when you present them with their awards,” said Engineering Aide Constructionman Jessica Couvillier. “I was just helping out giving out medals, but I was getting hugs from everyone - moms, dads, athletes and even volunteers. There were a lot of emotions throughout the day and it was awesome.”
For a few hours, these athletes were in the spotlight, standing on the podiums for all to see, receiving medals for their athleticism. In the Special Olympics, the power and joy of sports showcase all levels of talent and abilities, from aquatics to sailing to track and field. With 32 Olympic-style sports, the Special Olympics offer adults and children many ways to be involved in their communities and show off their competitive spirit.
| Date Taken: | 05.09.2015 |
| Date Posted: | 05.13.2015 08:39 |
| Story ID: | 163108 |
| Location: | GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI, US |
| Web Views: | 55 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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