Runners with a cause

MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- Volunteers participate in a run-a-thon at the base fitness center to raise donations for the Air Force Enlisted Village March 21. The charity run was part of the base's Air Force Assistance Fund campaign, which continues here through April 22. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Ryan Crane

Runners with a cause

Published March 29, 2007
By Airman Samantha S. DeVries

MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- With winds exceeding 25 miles per hour and a daytime high of 51 degrees Fahrenheit, March 21 did not appear to be a promising day for many outdoor activities.

Yet 60 Airmen here braved the wind and balmy temperatures during a two-hour charity run-a-thon to raise money for the Air Force Enlisted Village. Volunteers tabulate total donations collected this week.

"I want to thank all those who braved the wind and cold weather to help raise money and give attention to the Air Force Enlisted Village," said Master Sgt. John F. Jackson, 366th Security Forces Squadron and volunteer.

Three runners stood out during the event by running the full two hours.

Lt. Col. Mark E. Smallwood and Airman 1st Class James T. White from the 366th Aeromedical Dental Squadron ran with Airman 1st Class Keith F. Mlutkowski from the 366th Medical Support Squadron, each completing 53 laps totaling 14 miles.

"The run-a-thon was a wonderful event and a great success. I know the folks who ran had a lot of fun and the money raised was certainly for a worthy cause," said Colonel Smallwood.

"Running is a passion of mine, and with the height of marathon season right around the corner, I looked at this as a great opportunity to get a good training run in and meet new runners on base," said Airman Mlutkowski.

"I love to run, and to be able to run and raise money for a good cause makes it even better," added Airman White.

Runners participated on a team or individually and raised donations based on the number of laps completed. The Air Force Enlisted Village will receive 75 percent of the proceeds.

People here contributed money to the village and other Air Force charities during the Air Force Assistance Fund campaign, which continues here through April 22. The base hopes to raise about $60,000 during the campaign.

For more information on the charity, visit http://www.afenlistedwidows.org/.

To donate or for more information on this year's campaign, people should contact their squadron AFAF representative or call Captain Rishko at 828-2238. More information is also available online at http://afassistancefund.org and www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/votefund.

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Runners with a cause

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