Participants in the Armed Forces 5k Run wait at the starting line of the race at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, May 19. The race was held in celebration of Armed Forces Day, which celebrates the unification of all five branches of the military under the Depa...

Racers prepare for the start of the Armed Forces 5K Run at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, May 19. The race was held in celebration of Armed Forces Day, which celebrates the unification of all five branches of the military under the Department of Defense. (Pho...

Competitors in the Armed Forces 5k Run sprint the last stretch of the race at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, May 19. The race was held in celebration of Armed Forces Day, which celebrates the unification of all five branches of the military under the Departme...

Runners and walkers in the Armed Forces 5k Run make there way towards the final section of the race at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, May 19. The race was held in celebration of Armed Forces Day, which celebrates the unification of all five branches of the mi...

The race was held to celebrate unity and appreciation for all branches of the military for their service to the country.

"I hope they get a sense of camaraderie and unity out of the run," said Kevin Eddlemon, fitness center lead. "They are all on the same team and they are all US military."

The race gave participants a chance to do physical training in a different environment than usual.

"Our troops are in the best shape of any soldiers in the world," said Eddlemon.

Additionally, the race gave service members the opportunity to run with members from all five branches of the military, as well as civilians.

"Besides the exercise, it's good for everyone to get together," said Sgt. Francisco Gonzalez, Standard Army Maintenance System -- Enhanced non-commissioned officer in charge, A Company, 4th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery, 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, Fort Hood Texas.

Spc. Bwambale Frank, 59TH Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear Company, 22nd Chemical Battalion, 48th Chemical Brigade from Fort Hood was the first place finisher in the 3.1 mile race with a time of 18 minutes and 5 seconds.

"I really like it because it is something to keep us going," said Frank. "Races like this give us as soldiers the opportunity to meet other people."

Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson created Armed Forces Day in 1949 to celebrate the unification of all five branches of the military under the Department of Defense. Later, President John F. Kennedy recognized the day as an official holiday in 1962.

Events like The Armed Forces Day 5K race help ensure that Third Army Soldiers are ready tonight.