MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan (July 2, 2015) -- Proudly displaying the national colors, runners flocked to Penny Lake Field aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, for the annual Firecracker 5K Fun Run, July 2, 2015.
Base personnel came together to share their American spirit during a friendly competition in celebration of Independence Day, where each participant received a complimentary souvenir, refreshments and snacks at the finish line.
Mai Tajima, a recreational specialist with Marine Corps Community Services, said people are looking for something festive that brings them together.
“Participants always come back and tell me they enjoyed running and getting together,” said Tajima. “You can go out and run a 5k, big deal, but coming out and getting together, they have so much fun.”
Since the U.S. declared independence from Great Britain, Americans continue to look forward to celebrating the 4th of July with traditional fireworks and barbecues, but service members overseas may not get the same luxury of being with family and friends during the holidays.
“It reminds us we’re a home away from home, far away in Japan,” said Brandon Dengler, a General Schedule(GS)-12 facilities manager with the engineering department aboard station. “It’s nice to have everybody out here barbecuing and running. It brings back the holiday spirit.”
Spirits were high as the crowd of runners, bicyclists, toddlers in strollers and even a few dogs gathered at the starting line in a wave of red, white and blue.
Standing on the sidelines ensuring the runner’s stay safe, Cpl. Zachary Smith, an electrician with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 (VMGR 152), said he enjoys volunteering at these events.
“This themed fun run boosts people’s morale and makes them feel good about being an American,” said Smith. “Being over here in Japan, sometimes you just need a reminder of where you came from.”
Wearing red, white and blue may take the participants back to their roots and give them the chance to showcase their gratitude for their freedom and liberties, and time to reflect on the nation’s history. The Firecracker 5K Fun Run gave service members and their families across the station this opportunity.
Following the festivities, Tajima said the participants were happy and having fun.
“That’s what we’re here for,” said Tajima. “To make sailors, Marines and their families happy.”