Devil Dog Run breaks event $$ record

By Monica K. GuthrieSeptember 14, 2017

Ready to go
1 / 3 Show Caption + Hide Caption – 10-kilometer runners gather anticipating the signal to start the Devil Dog Run, near New Post Chapel at Fort Sill, Okla., Sept. 9, 2017. The 10K race sent out the first wave of participants, announced by an artillery report, shortly after 8 a.m. 5K ... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
Stepping out
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In step runners
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FORT SILL, Okla., Sept. 14, 2017 -- More than 600 people participated in the 24th annual Devil Dog Run, Sept. 9 at Fort Sill. The event, organized by the Marine Artillery Detachment, and co-hosted by Fort Sill Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, raises money for Marine unit functions.

"The race doesn't just help us pay for a fancy balls, it helps welcome junior Marines -- those who are at entry level -- into the Marine family," said Capt. Elliot Eggert, Marine battery commander and the organizer of the event. "For some the cost of attending one of these events can be a financial burden. Through this race we are able to ensure they can attend for free."

In all, the race raised almost $39,000 for the Marines, topping their last record of $28,000. Participants could choose between three races: a 10K, 5K and a free 1-mile fun run. The race was $25 and included a commemorative T-shirt.

The 10K kicked off the event shortly after 8 a.m. following words from Col. Timothy Parker, Marine Artillery Detachment commander. Parker joked about how his comrades-in-arms in the Army ask why Marines don't sing "The Marines' Hymn."

"Just so you know, we actually do know the words," he remarked in good humor.

Parker went on to say he was reminded of the hymn as he drove through Fort Sill that morning.

"It reminded me of the verse, 'If you ever look on heaven's seas you'll find the streets are guarded by United States Marines,'" he said. "Surely this morning on Fort Sill all the streets were guarded by United States Marines making sure you all can run safely."

The Marines' sergeant major also addressed the crowd encouraging them to take a moment to talk with each other and with the Marines.

"When you see the Marines at the checkpoint or water stations, stop and talk to them, take a break," said Sgt. Maj. James Moran. "It's not just a race, it's also an opportunity to have a good time so you can see the 250-300 Marines. A very small footprint we have here, but I love to tell you we make a dynamic impact whether we're volunteering or having an opportunity to have everyone come out and have a healthy Saturday morning."

The race snaked through the White Wolf Manor neighborhoods, down through Rucker Park, the Old Post Quadrangle and for those participating in the 10K, the race snaked through overhanging trees along the tank track that run parallel to Sheridan Road. Eggert said the event was a success and stressed the importance of the community supporting their Marines.

Looking back on the event whose creation he led, Eggert felt good about the outcome.

"I appreciate all the support from those involved as well as all who turned out to run."