MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Spirits were high and lungs were clear at the Great American Smokeout five and 10-Kilometer runs at the sea wall Friday.
With over 20 participating in the run, some were there to quit smoking and others to support them.
Marine Corps Community Services Semper Fit Division organized the run to raise awareness to the harmful effects of smoking and to promote the cessation programs available.
"It's voluntary and I came to support. I quit smoking at 8 o'clock this morning. It's hard but I have to just punch on through," said Lance Cpl. James Marvin Lee Saunders, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12 aviation life support assistance.
Saunders, a smoker for over seven years, especially feels the temptation to smoke when he is around other smokers.
In the past, Saunders has quit smoking for two months but manages to smoke again, but really wants to stop.
"Smoking slows me down when I run. It's hard for me to breathe. I go through a pack and a half a day. It's not easy to quit, though."
Some runners have had better luck quitting. "It's been over a month since I quit and I'm feeling good. The only thing is that I got a cramp halfway into the run," said Travaris T. Holmes, Marine Air Control Squadron 4 technician.
Others joined the run to take a stand against smoking.
"I'm highly against it. It doesn't better yourself as a person," said Cpl. Nadine N. Sanchez, Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 aviation supply.
Sanchez finished the race for first place in the women's division for the five-kilometer run.
Some of the runners were new not only to the Smokeout, but also new to the sport of running.
"This is the first time I have ever run a five-kilometer, and this is the first time I have ever ran the seawall," said Jocelyn T. Melchior.
"I have never ran in my life but I got to that age were I needed to start," the 35-year-old said. "I always wanted to run a five kilometer. I run on the tread mill at the gym but it's different from running outdoors."
Melchior just gave birth five months ago. "There were a lot of obstacles, but I still ran."
She completed the five kilometer run in third place.
After all the runners crossed the finish line, they were all treated with water, sandwiches, chips, sodas and prizes.
The turnout was a success for all. The hazards of smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco were mentioned to all to create a better awareness and understanding, said Billie Scott, MCCS Semper Fit health promotions director.