Service members compete in 9th Annual Red, White and Blue 5K

Courtesy Photo | 150516-N-ZZ999-173 YORKTOWN, Va. (May 16, 2015) - Luis A. Aviles, a runner in Naval Weapons Station Yorktown's 9th annual Red, White, and Blue 5K Run/Walk approaches the finish line while carrying the U.S. flag. Proceeds from the event benefit the Alliance Armed Forces Committees scholarship programs for military members and their families. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kaleb R. Staples/Released)  

WILLIAMSBURG, VA, UNITED STATES

05.16.2015

Story by Petty Officer 1st Class Ernest Scott 

Navy Public Affairs Support Element East - (Reserve)

WILLIAMSBURG, Va. – Service members and civilians competed in the 9th Annual Red, White, and Blue 5K Run/Walk, May 16, at Naval Weapons Station Yorktown-Cheatham Annex.

Proceeds from the event go to the Alliance Armed Forces Committee’s scholarship program for military members and their families.

“This is our primary fundraiser,” said John S. Garay, chair of the Alliance Armed Forces Committee. “We raise money for the Soldier and Sailor of the Year awards, as well as our scholarship program.”

More than 250 runners participated in the race, giving locals a unique opportunity to interact with the military.

"This is a great chance for the running community and the military community to come together,” said Navy Capt. Greg Dawson, the top military runner who placed 5th overall. “I'm part of both, so it's a nice synchronization of the two."

This year’s 5K also included the Commander’s Cup, an inter-service competition in which the five fastest runners from each branch of the military add together their times with the fastest overall branch winning the cup. The Army was victorious this year, taking home the trophy.

“These events really display the camaraderie among military members,” said Garay. “It also allows them to share that with the community.”

• Date Taken: 05.16.2015
• Date Posted: 05.18.2015 16:38
• Story ID: 163702
• Location: WILLIAMSBURG, VA, US