thedrifter
11-21-08, 09:16 AM
Marines, sailors sweat miles to raise money for NMCRS
Written by Cpl. Cindy G. Alejandrez
A running team donated $1,100 to the School of Infantry West’s Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, Nov. 14.
The Running Warriors, a team comprised of Marines and sailors, raised the funds thanks to pledges collected during SOI’s week-long, 233-mile run commemorating the Marine Corps’ 233rd birthday.
“Thank you for your tireless patriotism and dedication in assisting our Marines, sailors and family members in need,” said Staff Sgt. Dan W. Bridges, platoon commander, Company H, Marine Combat Training Battalion.Bridges, from Sedalia, Mo., also presented a running shirt pinned in a display case to NMCRS, along with the check.
During the birthday week, the Marines of the Running Warriors far exceeded their goal of 233 miles, running more than 500 miles combined, said Gunnery Sgt. Robert C. Kirby, company gunnery sergeant, Light Armored Vehicle Training Company.
“I am just amazed at the time and effort they have put in,” said Vena Fredericks, director, SOI-W NMCRS.
Fredericks, from Oceanside, has worked with NMCRS for more than 12 years, said it is rare for Marines to raise money for NMCRS. Most of the funds for NMCRS come from donations for the Camp Pendleton Fund Drive.
In 2007, SOI-W NMCRS provided more than $795,000 in funds for Marines, she added. The money assisted Marines during emergencies, such as last year’s October fires. Money is also available to them for loans and grants, along with budget counseling.
The Running Warriors team, which was started more than six months ago, now includes more than 40 runners and welcomes retired and active-duty service members, said Kirby, from Pittsburgh, Calif. They compete in Camp Pendleton’s Hardcore Race Series events, half-and full-marathons and triathlons to raise money. They hope to attract a full sponsorship to compete in out-of-state events to raise more money for NMCRS, he added.
“Since they started the Running Warriors they have done so much. You can really say they have hit the ground running,” said Fredericks.
To make a donation to NMCRS, visit www.nmcrs.org. To join the Running Warriors or contribute, e-mail Gunnery Sgt. Robert C. Kirby at robert.kirby1@usmc.mil or Staff Sgt. Dan W. Bridges at daniel.bridges@usmc.mil.
Ellie
Written by Cpl. Cindy G. Alejandrez
A running team donated $1,100 to the School of Infantry West’s Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, Nov. 14.
The Running Warriors, a team comprised of Marines and sailors, raised the funds thanks to pledges collected during SOI’s week-long, 233-mile run commemorating the Marine Corps’ 233rd birthday.
“Thank you for your tireless patriotism and dedication in assisting our Marines, sailors and family members in need,” said Staff Sgt. Dan W. Bridges, platoon commander, Company H, Marine Combat Training Battalion.Bridges, from Sedalia, Mo., also presented a running shirt pinned in a display case to NMCRS, along with the check.
During the birthday week, the Marines of the Running Warriors far exceeded their goal of 233 miles, running more than 500 miles combined, said Gunnery Sgt. Robert C. Kirby, company gunnery sergeant, Light Armored Vehicle Training Company.
“I am just amazed at the time and effort they have put in,” said Vena Fredericks, director, SOI-W NMCRS.
Fredericks, from Oceanside, has worked with NMCRS for more than 12 years, said it is rare for Marines to raise money for NMCRS. Most of the funds for NMCRS come from donations for the Camp Pendleton Fund Drive.
In 2007, SOI-W NMCRS provided more than $795,000 in funds for Marines, she added. The money assisted Marines during emergencies, such as last year’s October fires. Money is also available to them for loans and grants, along with budget counseling.
The Running Warriors team, which was started more than six months ago, now includes more than 40 runners and welcomes retired and active-duty service members, said Kirby, from Pittsburgh, Calif. They compete in Camp Pendleton’s Hardcore Race Series events, half-and full-marathons and triathlons to raise money. They hope to attract a full sponsorship to compete in out-of-state events to raise more money for NMCRS, he added.
“Since they started the Running Warriors they have done so much. You can really say they have hit the ground running,” said Fredericks.
To make a donation to NMCRS, visit www.nmcrs.org. To join the Running Warriors or contribute, e-mail Gunnery Sgt. Robert C. Kirby at robert.kirby1@usmc.mil or Staff Sgt. Dan W. Bridges at daniel.bridges@usmc.mil.
Ellie