Photo By 2nd Lt. Steven Tucker | Staff Sgt. Michael Stringer, 103rd Medical Group bioenvironmental engineer, presents...... read more read more
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WEST HAVEN, Conn. – The starting gun popped as the sun shone over a picture-perfect late spring day at Yale University’s Dewitt Cuyler Athletic Complex: the site of the final day of track and field events in the Special Olympics Connecticut Summer Games June 9, 2019.
Athletes and Unified Sports partners from around the state competed in events including relays, javelin throws, and 400-meter dashes—the culmination of a full year of training for the annual Summer Games.
Awaiting these athletes at the awards podium were Airmen from the Connecticut Air National Guard, including Staff Sgt. Michael Stringer, 103rd Medical Group bioenvironmental engineer.
“It’s inspiring to see these folks that come out and compete after training so hard for it,” said Stringer. “To see the smiles on their faces when you give them awards, it makes your day.”
Special Olympics Connecticut provides year-round training and competitions for over 12,000 athletes and Unified Sports Partners. Connecticut athletes also have opportunities to compete globally at Special Olympics’ USA and World Games.
“Their energy, hard work, and spirit is what motivates me to be a part of Special Olympics,” said Sunita Rajani, Special Olympics Connecticut committee member. “The athletes feel even more excited when people from the military present them awards because the athletes recognize the respect military members have earned through their own hard work.”
In the moments when the athletes receive their awards, you can tell how much it means coming from someone in uniform, said Stringer.
“Usually it’s a smile, a wave, a salute, a handshake—I’ve had a few hugs too; it seems like you really make their day,” said Stringer. “Us just showing up and being there makes them happy.”
In addition, the support from the Connecticut Air National Guard provides an opportunity for members to connect with event organizers and volunteers from the community.
“We always feel excited when we have people from the military come in to talk with us and present awards,” said Rajani. “It elevates the excitement for the athletes and it’s a great chance for all of us to get to know [the Airmen].”
The learning experience was mutual as Airmen ended the day having picked up lessons along the way, said Stringer.
“You see what the athletes have been through and the challenges they’ve faced, and they’re so happy about what they do,” said Stringer. “Their passion makes me appreciate moments like today.”
| Date Taken: | 06.09.2019 |
| Date Posted: | 06.12.2019 07:17 |
| Story ID: | 326838 |
| Location: | WEST HAVEN, CT, US |
| Web Views: | 171 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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