Sailors, Families Participate in San Diego's 24th Annual POW/MIA 5K

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (EXW) Tyler J. Wilson, Naval Base San Diego Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- More than 4,000 San Diego-area service members and their families participated in Naval Base San Diego's 24th annual Prisoners of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA) 5K "You Are Not Forgotten" run at Admiral Prout Field Sept. 8.

Service members from every branch participated in the run to honor service members who are prisoners of war or missing in action.

"Events like this helps keep the memories of those who are POWs or MIA fresh in our minds," said Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Joshua Canon, Expeditionary Combat Readiness Center San Diego. "I just wish they could see us all here and know that we're thinking about them and praying for them."

The Navy band performed and Morale, Welfare and Recreation offered a raffle with multiple prizes to those participating in the run.

"This event is in honor of those who are still out there," said Marni Wheeler, run coordinator. "It seems like a small gesture in comparison to what they are giving, but hopefully they know they are in our thoughts and they are missed."

Engineman 3rd Class Greggory Martin, from Expeditionary Combat Readiness Center San Diego, said he believes such events should be held more often to keep the memory of those in POW/MIA camps alive.

"The message is a clear one," said Martin. "You are not forgotten. An event that promotes fitness for the military and remembrance is one that I will always sign up for. I hope to see more in the future."

When the first POW/MIA 5K remembrance run began in 1986, there were 50 Sailors in attendance. Since then, it has grown to more than 4,000 participants.