Gunfighters race for the cure

by Senior Airman Benjamin Sutton
366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

5/15/2013 - MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho  -- In the early morning light all the eye could behold was a sea of pink humanity spread throughout the streets of Boise, Idaho.

The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure celebrated its 15th year with an annual 5K run and one mile run/walk option for participants.

"This is a really big deal for my family because both my wife and I have been directly affected by this disease," said Staff Sgt. Aaron Wanzer, 366th Comptroller Squadron station gain technician. "My wife's mother and my grandmother both passed away from cancer and those experiences have made finding a cure personal for us. Being there and seeing all the people who have fought and survived cancer as well as their family and friends showing support, are a few reasons why I participate."

This year's race twisted through downtown streets, eventually ending where it began.

"There were so many people who showed up this year to support the cause that I saw people finishing the race before my family and I even started," Wanzer said. "Seeing all these individuals who have fought, defeated and survived cancer surrounded with such a huge amount of energy and love really shows how worthy a cause this is."

Wanzer and his family brought others from his squadron to the event in an effort to raise awareness about the ways anyone can make a difference in the fight against cancer.

"Some people from my squadron came out to show support as well," Wanzer said. "The military is like an extended family for us since we are stationed so far away from our relatives. One of the Airmen who experienced the race for the first time told me about her grandmother who died from breast cancer.

"She had no clue this type of event even existed and after experiencing it she couldn't stop talking about how moving it was that so many people come together to fight this disease and how inspired she was to participate in the future," he continued. "I also think the large amount of people in the crowd surprised her."

One man in the crowd was excited to see military personnel supporting the event.

"I think it's awesome that folks from the base are here supporting the race," said Tony Mock, a personal trainer from a local business. "Almost everyone has been affected by this disease in some way."

Many participants are already looking forward to the next year's race.

"I'm already excited for the 2014 race because it's great to get out and be involved with the local community," Wanzer said. "It's an awesome way to lift people's spirits, support research to find a cure and have some fun while doing it."