CAMP ATTERBURY JOINT MANEUVER TRAINING CENTER, Ind. — The sound of cadences could be heard throughout Camp Atterbury Joint Maneuver Training Center in the early morning of March 30 as more than 200 Soldiers sang out simultaneously, creating a foot pounding pulse that fueled their drive and determination during a five-kilometer run.
The Morale, Welfare and Recreation for the Installation Support Unit here hosted the first unit five kilometer fun run this year, to build morale and raise money for multiple sclerosis.
Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the ability of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord to communicate with each other causing problems with muscle control, vision, balance and cognitive impairment. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society estimates about 400,000 people have the disease.
1st. Sgt. Jeffrey Stevens with the MWR said the unit five kilometer fun run has three main objectives: building morale within ISU, helping Soldiers prepare for the physical fitness test and help the community by supporting charities that affect us all.
"We, as Soldiers, are blessed and we should give to those who are less fortunate than us," said Stevens. "Once a month we should come together and try to build unit cohesion by participating in unit functions such as a fun run."
Spc. Steven Jarvis, a range trainer for ISU enjoyed the morning run.
"It felt great to run with my unit and I really liked calling cadences while running with a group," he said. "It is motivational to everyone and this will help with [physical fitness]."
Spc. Darin Ness, a heavy equipment operator for ISU agreed that the run was very motivational.
"I hate running and I lose sight after the first mile and a half, but running with my unit helps me keep focused because you do not want to look weak in front of your leaders, so you keep up and it definitely helps you push yourself," said Ness.
And into the early morning dawn they ran, motivating one another to not give up or slow down.