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    Marines Race for a Cure at Al Asad

    Marines Race for the Cure at Al Asad

    Photo By Chad McMeen | Gunnery Sgt. Ryan S. Hermance leads the way during a half marathon June 3, at Al Asad,...... read more read more

    AL ASAD, IRAQ

    06.10.2006

    Courtesy Story

    Marine Corps Air Station Miramar

    AL ASAD, Iraq (June 3, 2006) -- Marines with Marine Wing Support Squadron 274 ran a half marathon in support of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation's Race For The Cure June 3, 2006.

    The drive and motivation for the 14 Marines was given by 1st Lt. Brandon E. Cooley, heavy equipment officer-in-charge, and Gunnery Sgt. Ryan S. Hermance, engineer company first sergeant, when they pitched the idea of a run to their co-workers.

    Cooley lost his mother to cancer in 2001 and made the commitment to running the Race for a Cure to remember her.

    "I had the opportunity to run races for cancer awareness with her after her first battle with cancer," said Cooley. "When she died I decided to continue the tradition."

    The original plan was to run the three miles arranged by the Al Asad Moral, Welfare and Recreation, but when that was cancelled they took it upon themselves to organize a run.

    "We couldn't back out and it was for a good cause," said Cooley. "Besides, not many people can say they've run a half marathon in Iraq."

    "Everyone knows someone who has been affected by breast cancer," stated Hermance. "Even though we are deployed to Iraq we wanted to show our support to the cause and to Cooley."

    After two and a half hours and 14 miles, the Marines crossed the finish line. They raised $240 dollars for the foundation, which was donated by fellow Marines.

    MWSS-274 operates under the umbrella of Marine Wing Support Group 37 (Reinforced), 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, while in Iraq.

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 06.10.2006
    Date Posted: 06.10.2006 10:43
    Story ID: 6772
    Location: AL ASAD, IQ

    Web Views: 159
    Downloads: 22

    PUBLIC DOMAIN