CAMP HUMPHREYS -- The Humphreys community gathered at MP Hill Gym April 13 to celebrate Earth Day with an Environmental Fair and Earth Day 5K Run. This year's Earth Day activities were hosted under the theme of "Acknowledge the past, Engage the Present, and Chart the Future." They were hosted by the U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys Directorate of Public Works Environmental Division, in collaboration with the Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Sports Division.
The events were held to promote environmental awareness throughout the community. Following the run, a dozen teams manned exhibits about protecting the environment, letting visitors know just how important it is. "Participation in the run and the event as a whole was outstanding," said Onsemus "Keith" Smith, chief of the Pollution Prevention and Compliance Branch "The participants had a variety of questions answered regarding environmental programs and initiatives that are ongoing on installation."
One exhibit featured a giant horse built out of recyclable materials made by 1st Sgt. Orlando Silva, assigned to E Company, 4th Battalion, 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade. One of the most packed booths was operated by Spc. Liz Horne, assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 602nd Aviation Support Battalion. Visitors to her booth could play a version of Environmental "Wheel of Fortune," where they answered questions about energy, water and waste. Winners received prizes made from recyclable items.
"This quiz roulette is for the entire family, but especially for children," Horne said. "I wanted to get children involved, so they can think about the Earth and environment protection." As for the run, almost 135 turned out. The best time of the day was recorded in the Men's Open (29 and Under) by 2nd Lt. Aaron Knox, assigned to 501st Signal, at 18 minutes, 8 seconds. Health Promotion's Dave Elger finished a close second, recording a time of 18:14.
The top finisher on the women's side was Spc. Miae Phioos, assigned to A Company, 719th Military Intelligence Battalion, running in the Women's Senior (30-19) category, with a time of 21:34. Second place went to Capt. Kathleen Alfin, assigned to D Company, 3-2 General Support Aviation Battalion, with a time of 21:48. In the children's category, Ayden Lilly led the field, finishing with a time of 21:58. Robert Crosswhite finished second, with a time of 22:36.
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