Richmond, Va. –
Somber bagpipe notes filled the air with Amazing Grace as more than 200 employees participated in the 9-11 Remembrance 5K Run/Walk at the Picnic Pavilion on Defense Supply Center Richmond, Virginia, Sept. 11.
September 11, 2001 is a date that is notorious for just how resilient the American people are: unifying people regardless of race, creed or color, from all walks of life, economic, educational and religious backgrounds.
With temperatures in the high 80s, participants gathered at the starting line ready to pay tribute to the determination, perseverance and courage of those who took part in the rescue and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center site, the Pentagon and a field in Somerset County, Pennsylvania.
Co-sponsored by Defense Logistics Agency Installation Management Richmond’s Security and Emergency Services and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Program Office, the course started at the bridge and finished across from Trailer 194, following the perimeter road of DSCR near Kingsland Creek.
“It was very humbling to see so many employees come out to support this event and brave the heat and humidity.” said Don Rodgers, fire chief, Fire and Emergency Services Branch. “We can’t thank everyone enough that came out and showed that they will never forget what the first responders and civilians did that day and to remember those that lost their lives in the attack.”
Firefighters, along with bagpiper Dave Kolmer, a general engineer based on DSCR who supports DLA Energy’s infrastructure throughout the U.S., passed out cups of water, sports drinks and words of encouragement as the participants completed their first round of two.
“It’s a great way to encourage a healthy lifestyle so we can continue being the best we can to combat terrorism around the world,” said Kolmer. “And, continue to work for a better world.”
Kevin Rosenblum, the deputy business relationship manager for DLA information Operations Richmond, was the first male to cross the finish line with a time of 21 minutes, 12 seconds. Catherine Jones, a management assistant with DLA Disposition Services Richmond came in with the fastest female time at 26:48.