Whiteman to honor the past with a POW/MIA run

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Cody Ramirez
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo --  Members of active duty, Guard and Reserve units here will support those military members who have been prisoners of war, or determined missing-in-action throughout U.S. military history with an annual run, Sept. 13-14. The run kicks off 4 p.m., Sept., 13 and continues until 4 p.m., Sept. 14.

The run will start with a remembrance ceremony where a torch is lit and a flag is raised. Each move continuously for 24 hours to represent the sacrifice and struggle each POW and MIA made sacrificing their freedom to protect their country's.

"The 24- hour POW/MIA Run is done in remembrance of those who have given their lives and are still continuing to sacrifice for you and me," said Staff Sgt. Michelle Brambila, POW/MIA run team coordinator. "It is our duty to pay the utmost respect to our fellow service members and their families. Many are still continuing to pay the ultimate price and have endured things most of us can't even imagine. This is a day set aside specifically to honor our POW/MIA family members."

According to heroesofhome.com, since World War I more than 200,000 Americans have been listed as POW or MIA. Less than half of them were returned at the end of hostilities, leaving more than 125,000 American servicemen MIA since the beginning of World War I.

Last year, more than 120 individuals serving here came out to honor these American heroes. Brambila said at this time service members from 18 units across Whiteman will each run two 30-minute segments to support the cause.

The remaining slots will be filled by last minute sign ups or units who volunteer to run additional slots.

Chief Master Sgt. Lee Barr, 509th Bomb Wing Command Chief, said he expects to have a great showing this year.

"I believe now more than ever we need to honor and show respect to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our nation's freedom. We've been in a constant state of war for over 20 years," Barr said. "Our men and women who serve in the U.S. Armed Forces can express their gratitude and reverence by participating in the 2012 POW/MIA run.

"I feel truly blessed to be able to show support to those who sacrificed all to protect our great nation and the freedoms we enjoy today," the chief added.

Individuals interested in taking part in the run can contact their unit representative or first sergeant for more information.