FORT HOOD, Texas - More than 1,100 students, teachers, administrators and Soldiers traveled approximately 1,500 miles during the Reeces Creek Elementary School Annual Freedom Walk here recently.
Soldiers, from the 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division "Long Knives," along with students and faculty at the Fort Hood elementary school walked and ran side-by-side to celebrate freedom for all citizens.
"It was fun exercising and walking with the soldiers, and it was cool," said Jasmine Solomon, a 2nd grader at Reeces Creek Elementary.
The Freedom Walk provided the students an opportunity to learn about and appreciate the everyday freedoms that most Americans enjoy, while interacting with the Soldiers for fun and activity.
The all-day event included children from kindergarten through fifth grade, with 2-12 Cav. Soldiers throughout the day.
The school's principal handed out popsicle-sticks to help the students cool off and stay motivated, as they made laps around the track.
"We had our students racing the Soldiers around the track," said Taylor after the event. "Everyone involved had good things to say about their experience."
Nichole Morrison, a parent and substitute teacher, said having the Soldier's participate made the event special for the children.
"Even though the kids are all young and may not understand freedom in its entirety, having Soldiers participate to represent (America) gave them a reason to get really excited," she said.
The event was yet another opportunity for 2-12 Cav. to strengthen its adopt-a-school program with elementary schools throughout the base.
"This is a great example of how with a minimal amount of effort, great things can be accomplished," said Maj. Dustin Harris, executive officer for 2nd Bn., 12th Cav. Regt., 4th BCT, 1st Cav. Div., from Killeen.
The unit is planning similar events that will enable Soldiers to continue to provide a positive example and mentorship to the students.
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