FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Runners throughout the Fayetteville and Fort Bragg community joined together to celebrate Armed Forces Day, May 17 with the United Service Organizations’ (USO) Sixth Annual Run for the Troops 5k at Methodist University.
An estimated 200 walkers and runners from children to adults participated in the race to help support the local military community, which directly benefits the Fort Bragg and Fayetteville Airport USO centers.
“Look out here, there are a mixture of people – military families, dogs, strollers – and everyone is smiling and getting to know each other, and supporting their community,” said Stephanie Kegler, community manager at Randolph Pointe.
For many race participants, this event gave them the opportunity to get to know their fellow neighbors and establish a common connection, and friendship.
Kegler organized a team of five Soldiers who live in the military housing community to participate in the race. Randolph Pointe is a privatized apartment community located on Fort Bragg for single and unaccompanied senior non-commissioned officers, ranks E-6 and above.
“This is the fourth year the Randolph Pointe community has participated in the race,” said Kegler. “No one in our team knew each other prior to the race, but here they are carrying on like they’ve known each other forever. It brings people together.”
The USO Run for the Troops event helps to also bring awareness to the community surrounding Fort Bragg on the importance of camaraderie.
“The connection and partnership between the military and civilian community during this race is invaluable. It shows how dedicated the communities are in establishing a common bond and support system for those who serve our country,” said Marsha Lunt, an emergency manager at Womack Army Medical Center, and race participant.
“You have to understand that not everyone who lives in Fayetteville has a job here at Fort Bragg, and not everyone knows a Soldier personally,” said Renee Lane, director of the Fort Bragg USO Center.
“There are people out there who want to help, but they don’t know what they can do for us, or how much they can do for us. Having a fundraiser like this is a great way to get people involved and a great way for them to feel like they have given back to the men and women who serve our country so honorably,” said Lane.
Overall first place race winners for men and women are Kyle Botten coming in at 14:35, and Judith Reed at17:34.
Overall second place race winners for men and women are William Lemieux coming in at 14:42 and Meagan Mercer at 18:41.
Overall third place race winners for men and women are Nic Teague coming in at 14:44, and Natasha Avignone at 17:34.
In addition to the proceeds received from the race, Wal-Mart donated $100,000 toward USO Centers throughout the state of North Carolina.
For more information regarding the USO or services they provide, please contact the Fort Bragg USO Center at 910-495-1437.