Marines

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More than 75 runners participated in the Fishin’ for Fun Run at Orde Pond aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, April 12. Marine Corps Community Services created the fun run in honor of Month of the Military Child to show appreciation for the sacrifices of military children in the community.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Andrea Ovalle

Fishin’ for Fun run honors Month of the Military Child

12 Apr 2014 | Lance Cpl. Andrea Ovalle Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

More than 75 runners participated in the Fishin’ for Fun Run hosted by Marine Corps Community Services at Orde Pond Recreation Area aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, April 12.

MCCS created the fun run in honor of Month of the Military Child to show appreciation for the sacrifices of military children in the community.

“We want to bring attention to the fact that children need to be celebrated as well. We support all military children and the sacrifices they go through,” said Gabrielle Parish, program director at Tarawa Terrence Community Center aboard Camp Lejeune. “What better way (to celebrate military children), than to have fun activities for them.”

Participants had the option of running a one and a half or three-mile course. The event was focused on celebrating the children and not a competition. Parents walked and ran alongside their children, motivating them to the finish line, where they received a medal for their accomplishment. 

“This run celebrates military children and lets the kids know we are here for them by bringing them to these types of events,” said Jennifer Martinez, a participant. “They can meet other military children and have fun while doing physical activity.”

According to the University of California at San Diego, physical activity can have many positive impacts on children. Research suggests physical activity helps develop muscles, can fend off obesity and may even help children perform better academically.

Immediately following the fun run, the children were invited to take part in the Kids Gone Fishin’ Derby hosted by Outdoor Adventures, also at Orde Pond.

According to many participants, it’s events like those hosted by MCCS that bring a sense of belonging to the Camp Lejeune area and are well enjoyed by participants.

“MCCS’ support for the military lifestyle is great,” said Nicole Koppel, a fun run participant. “They reach out to new families and encourage them to network with others in the area and to come out to events with the whole family in a relaxing atmosphere for everyone.”

The purpose of MCCS events is to encourage a sense of community among the military families of Camp Lejeune and surrounding areas.

“Spouses meeting each other and kids making new friends, these are the type of events that let the community know there are resources here for us,” said Martinez.

For more information about future events, contact the Tarawa Terrence Community Center at 451-1807 or visit www.mccslejeune.com/community.

 

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