MPs join Special Olympics torch run, raise community awareness

By Staff Sgt. Taresha HillJune 10, 2015

8th MPs join Special Olympics torch run, raise community awareness
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8th MPs join Special Olympics torch run, raise community awareness
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8th MPs join Special Olympics torch run, raise community awareness
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HONOLULU - Nearly 300 Soldiers from within the 8th Military Police Brigade, 8th Theater Sustainment Command, joined law enforcement professionals from across the islands of Hawaii during the Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, here May 29.

Each year, Soldiers and family members seize the opportunity to run in the three-mile event to help show their support and to raise awareness, along with funds, for Special Olympics-Hawaii.

"It's a worthy cause," said Col. Duane Miller, commander, 8th MP Brigade. "It commemorates those that serve our community and those that have given their final devotion to duty."

This year marked the 30th year for the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which was named after Troy Barboza, a fallen Honolulu police officer who dedicated his time to coaching Special Olympics athletes.

The Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Special Olympics Torch run is part of a worldwide series of torch runs, which stretches across all 50 states and over 40 nations.

In addition to raising awareness, this year Special Olympics-Hawaii honored three volunteers who were inducted into the Special Olympics hall of fame.

Chief Antonio Williams, chief of civilian police, U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii, said being inducted was a great honor, but it came as a complete surprise.

"I'm speechless," said Williams. "I don't do this for the recognition, but I feel like there is no greater passion other than helping people."

The event began at Fort DeRussy and ended at the Les Murakami Stadium, as law enforcement, civilian and military personnel, including Watchdog Soldiers, poured into the stadium with the flame of hope, officially signaling the start of the Special Olympics season.

"It's the best event of the year," said Spc. James Page, a police officer with 39th MP Detachment's bike patrol. "We get to interact with the public and raise awareness within the community."

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