Journey to Remember

  • Published
  • Air Force Sergeants Association
MOUNTAIN HOME AFB, Idaho --  In honor of Veteran's Day, members of the Air Force Sergeants Association kicked off a 24 hour run-a-thon called "A Journey to Remember," which began at 11 a.m. Nov. 10 lasting until 11 a.m. Nov. 11.

Gunfighter Chapter 1164, which represents Mountain Home AFB and Gowen Field, consisting of members of all ranks, who serve on active duty, Guard and Reserve, to include veterans and retirees across Idaho, planned the event to remind fellow servicemen and citizens of their surrounding communities of the sacrifice veterans have made to keep Americans free.

"Over 50 runners travelled more than 250 miles and experienced first-hand what it felt like to volunteer for a cause," said Master Sgt. Michael Shelley, AFSA Chapter 1164 vice president. "To step up and push themselves and continue to move because they knew there was a greater reward in store, just as our servicemen and women have done in the past and continue to do now."

While participating in the event took stamina, organizing it took dedication, resourcefulness, and many hours of the volunteer's personal time.

"Senior Master Sgt. Pat Combs and Tech. Sgt. Mindi Anderson recruited the majority of the runners and sponsors to make the event a success," said Sergeant Shelley. "Staff Sgt. Zach Fair and I assisted by staying all night to make sure there was a runner running at all times."

A few of the active participants were members of the MHAFB operations group and legal office, along with Gowen Field's Brig. Gen. Gary Sayler and State Command Chief Master Sgt. Pete Glick. The run-a-thon was also made possible by the participation of members of the Idaho Army Guard and local retirees, veterans and family members.

The "Journey to Remember" run culminated with a monetary contribution to the Boise Veterans Home during their Veteran's Day ceremony.
"Through the support of the veteran's home residents and staff, the runners were encouraged to keep running and raise as much money as possible for the local 'Beds for Vets' program," said Sergeant Shelley. "After the grueling, yet enjoyable, nonstop 24 hour journey, AFSA donated $4,000 dollars. Now the veterans that kept us free may rest easy."