HONOLULU, HAWAII -- It was an early Monday morning in Honolulu as more than 5000 motivated Soldiers alongside their Air Force, Coast Guard and Marines counterparts jam-packed the streets for the Great Aloha Run Feb 16.
The 25th Infantry Division along with numerous military organizations formed the "Sounds of Freedom" as they partnered with the Hawaiian community to promote esprit de corps during an approximate 8-mile fun run through the city.
The Tropic Lightning Division supported the event with more than 4000 Soldiers chanting Army cadences and numerous unit colors displayed for all to see.
"Today we ran the Great Aloha Run and it was a great celebration of the military contribution to Hawaii and what Hawaii means to us," said 25th Infantry Division Commanding General, Maj. Gen. Charles Flynn.
This historic run began at the Aloha Tower and ended at the Aloha Stadium. Countless Soldiers were excited to run among the local community and enjoyed the collaboration with civilians.
"It's always great to run with civilians and the community," said Sgt. Damien Hirst, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 25th ID. "I enjoyed interacting with them and being a part of their family."
Sgt. 1st Class Cody Posey, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, was inspired with the effort shown by the local community.
"It's pretty motivating when you're running with the community, showing them what we are all about," Posey said. "It was amazing seeing someone in the late 70's during the run. The community showed a lot of support," Posey said.
The officer and noncommissioned officer corps showed unity for this event to help solidify the confidence the local community has for the Armed Forces in Hawaii.
"Having the Army there in the size that it was an illustration of what we bring to the community but moreover that we are part of the community," Flynn said.
Social Sharing