A run to remember: Creech Airmen honor fallen warriors

by Staff Sgt. Nadine
432d Wing/432d Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

2/4/2013 - CREECH AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- Physical fitness is a major focal point for Airmen readiness across the Air Force and running is a key element. Airmen at Creech Air Force Base, Nev., have decided to do more than just run for fitness, they run for a purpose.

What initially started as a quick way to get Airmen of all fitness levels to get out and run has grown into a club of more than 60 Airmen who run to remember.

"We run in memory of our fallen brothers and sisters," said Senior Airman Tanya, a weather forecaster from the 78th Attack Squadron, and running club president. "It gives us a little bit more motivation if we remember that we are able to run, yet others who aren't able to run anymore would be out here if they could be."

Kicking off in early October 2012, the Creech AFB Fallen Warriors Memorial Club was initiated by Tanya with a focus on honoring not only Creech fallen warriors, but all those who have lost their life serving their country.

"I started the club because I noticed that we didn't really have anything like this here and I had experience from a past unit so I thought I'd try it," Tanya said.

Now, the group trains once a week with an option to attend a specific fitness program geared toward their individual needs.

"I believe this running club really brings out the best in the individuals who participate," said 432d Wing/432d Air Expeditionary Wing Command Chief Master Sgt. "It meshes together two very important items in today's military; maintaining our fitness level and honoring our fallen warriors."

This club has gained not only the support of leadership, but has also left a lasting impression on its members.

"I love the club, it's awesome," said Staff Sgt. Brock, 432d Maintenance Group quality assurance inspector. "We are running for a good cause and supporting our fallen warriors while supporting each other as well."

Typical runs build endurance while others such as tempo runs build speed to help members prepare for their AF fitness assessment.

Staying physically fit is nothing new to Tanya, who has been running for years and has a passion for both the military and fitness.

"Our runs eventually build to eight miles and that becomes our memorial run," Brock said. "We wear our fallen warriors t-shirts and the whole thing is a very positive experience that I'm glad to be part of."

Tanya said that she is happy Airmen have come out to support the cause and is excited that people are networking with others outside of their own units.

"Our job is to stay fit to fight and this is a way to motivate people who may or may not like running to come out and get healthy," Tanya said.

"It's a new spin on out fitness program and motivates our Creech Airmen to stay active and fit my giving them another reason to run," said the 432d WG/AEW Command Chief Master Sgt.