Fort Rucker Jail-a-thon raises money for AER fund

FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- The 6th Military Police Detachment had its hands and "jail" full May 6.

More than 100 people were "arrested" on various charges for the 2010 Army Emergency Relief Jail-A-Thon, according to Staff Sgt. Cory Morrell.

The annual event helps raise money for AER while allowing people all over Fort Rucker to have fun, Morrell said.

"They know it's a great cause," Morrell said. "It's something that everyone from employees at the food court in the (Post Exchange) to sergeants major and everyone in between can participate."

Morrell, along with Staff Sgt. Jamie Osmon and Sgt. Alex Jones, co-organized the event and were pleased with the amount of support from the Fort Rucker community.

"We all had a good time," Osmon said. "Even people who were just walking by decided to get involved. Some even bought 'warrants' and others just wanted to make a donation."

Even people who couldn't brave the heat of the day still managed to participate, according to Morrell.

"Some people couldn't get away from class or work but they still wanted to make a donation," Morrell said. "It was great to see that kind of support for the Soldiers."

While those "arrested" knew it was all in jest, some were opposed to the reasons given for their arrests.

"I was framed for being late to my own meetings," Command Sgt. Maj. Steven Green said. "Well, it might be true."

Capt. Justin Barnes, AER campaign coordinator, said he was happy to see all the participation from so many people.

"The MPs have done this several times and they've definitely got a system that works," Barnes said. "It's always nice to see Soldiers supporting Soldiers."

The event raised $3,600 for AER, according to Morrell.

"We would like to have gotten more, but it's all to help AER," Morrell said. "This is all about helping Soldiers."