JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
Air Force District of Washington Airmen and civilians ran two miles on a 50 - degree, overcast day to raise awareness for the Air Force Assistance Fund March 15 on Joint Base Andrews.
The command event, led by Maj. Gen. Darren McDew, AFDW commander, included runners from Joint Base Andrews and Joint Base Anacostia - Bolling.
"The Air Force Assistance Fund is the only charity that gives directly back to only Airmen," said Chief Master Sgt. Richard Brown, 779th Medical Group functional manager. Chief Brown finished the run first and was ready to pace out four additional miles when the run concluded.
"Many of my Airmen have been helped over the years by the fund, and we all need help at one point or another," said Chief Brown.
Donations to the Air Force Assistance Fund provide Air Force servicemembers, retirees and dependents with aid for emergency and educational needs. The AFAF also provides secure retirement homes for widows or widowers of Air Force members who require financial assistance.
The Air Force Aid Society, one of four charities the AFAF funds, has the most direct impact on Airmen. It benefits the Air Force mission by providing worldwide emergency assistance, sponsoring education assistance programs and offering an array of base community enhancement programs.
"Make no mistake, these donations help the Airmen you work with every day," said 11th Wing/ Joint Base Andrews commander Col. Ken Rizer. "Last year, Andrews Airmen received more than $129,000 in grants and loans, for everything from rent payments to baby clothes."
Runners were given snacks and water at the conclusion of the run provided by the United Service Organization. Though the run did not mandate formation style, several units executed the run formed up and following guidons.
"I am very excited to see this event focus on how the AFAF helps every Airman," said Major Ty Christian, AFDW campaign coordinator. "Think about it, if a fellow Airman is helped out and doesn't have to worry about a bill, they're a better wingman. This is a total force effort."