Staff Sgt. David Tompsett joined the race with thousands of Minnesotans in support of the Susan G. Komen Foundation, August 19-21, 2011. Together they raised money for the fight against breast cancer. In this "battle" supporters wore pink not Army green; and money was raised for future investments in research and community programs.
Tompsett, a recruiter with the Saint Paul Army Recruiting Company, Minneapolis Recruiting Battalion, challenged himself to raise the money needed to guarantee him a right to walk; and through the support of family, friends, and private organizations he was able to raise $2310. "Their support was humbling," said Tompsett. Their contribution to the cause "shows that we still and always will have Americans out there that are willing to give up a piece of themselves physically and monetarily."
Though he has fortunately never been personally afflicted by the disease, nor has he ever had a family member diagnosed with cancer, he still felt it was important to show his support at The Susan G. Komen Twin Cities 3-Day for the Cure. Tompsett wanted to show people that you don't have to be directly affected by something to make a difference.
"When you get to see the people that are directly or indirectly affected, it moves you. It makes you want to count your blessings and help when you can. It is like civilians that want to shake a Servicemembers hand, buy us a bite to eat, and say thank you. It just feels good to do the right thing," he said.
And his command feels that this was exactly what their Soldier did for three days in August on a 60 mile walk along a route where participants were greeted by cheering supporters.
This was only able to happen through the support of his leadership. "I feel that without my leaders I would not have been successful. Recognition truly lies with the people that I work with and for. Great leaders inspire Soldiers to strive for others. It is what we all do as Servicemembers," said Tompsett.
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