ZAGAN, Poland - Spc. Courtney Roth waves excitedly with one hand while holding a U.S. flag in the other, she sports a Polish-flag themed running shirt as she passes individuals taking pictures while running across a bridge in Zagan, Poland's historic district.
On Nov. 11, she and other Soldiers from the U.S. 1st Infantry Division completed the annual Polish Independence Day 10-kilometer run.
"I feel like this is a unique experience," said Roth, a Cleveland, Ohio, native. She did not join the Army knowing she would be sent to eastern Europe, but she has loved her time here.
Among those who energized Roth on the 10K run were more than 2,000 runners, which included Polish and U.S. Soldiers, who ran alongside her in the race.
Roth and other 1st ID troops are currently deployed to Europe to support Atlantic Resolve. Abbreviated OAR for short, it is a demonstration of continued U.S. dedication to enduring peace and stability in the region that is carried out through training and shared experiences.
"Our mission over here is to build a rapport with our Allies over here in Europe," said 1st Lt. Daniel Engstrom, 82nd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st ID. "We serve a critical role in the link between our two countries."
The 10-kilometer run gave Soldiers an opportunity to interact with the local community and allowed them to strengthen the relationship between Poland and the United States.
"(The run) lets us get out to see and get to know people in the community and send a positive image of Americans," said Cpl. Riley Mix, 82nd BEB. "I think it helps let people know who we are and what we are about."
The U.S. Soldiers who participated in the run demonstrated support of their hosts as Poland celebrated its 99th year of independence as a country. The run takes place every year on Nov. 11.
"My favorite part of the race was the level of community involvement," said Roth, 82nd BEB.
The involvement of the local community was apparent to Roth during the run.
"Everyone was looking out their windows with their children, with their dogs, just cheering every single person on, high fiving people, everyone was taking photos - it made everyone feel like we were part of something bigger than just a race against a clock," said Roth.
Atlantic Resolve not only shows U.S. allies and partners in Europe the U.S. commitment to the region; it also provides young soldiers partaking in events like this a chance to support the mission at the community level.
"Being here in Poland is amazing," said Roth, "I feel very welcome here."
Roth said many of the U.S. Soldiers who ran in the Polish Independence Day Run felt like a part of the local community. This helps bring a sense of accomplishment towards the mission to those who participated.
"(The run) brings us together," said Roth. "When we're back home at Fort Riley, we do community events and volunteer work, so it should be no different here, because this is temporarily our home right now."
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