By Staff Sgt. Regina Machine
Third Army/ARCENT Public Affairs
CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait -- Several hundred Servicemembers participated in a 5K run/walk to celebrate the Marine Corps' 236th birthday here Nov. 10.
Marine Corps Col. Erick Thomas, Marine Central Coordination Element Kuwait commander and native of Tacoma, Wash., spoke about the rich history of the Marine Corps.
"For 236 years, the Marine Corps has stood committed to defend the United States," Thomas said. "We will always stand ready."
Since 2004, Marine Central has continued its steady presence in Kuwait.
The chill in the air did not deter the MARCENT detachment, fellow Servicemembers, and civilians, from coming out and supporting the Marine Corps birthday.
For Lance Cpl. Michael T. Sullivan, an embark clerk with the MCE-K and Rockville, Md. native, running gave him a sense of camaraderie.
"I am not stateside to run with the Marines there but it was good to be able to run with my Marines here," Sullivan stated.
For the first female to cross the line, 1st Lt. Michelle Miller, Joint Logistics Task Force 6 administration officer and Gatlinburg, Tenn. native, the run was an opportunity to get good physical training.
Miller had this advice to give others who never took the 5K challenge. "Completing the 5K is something to work for. Set a personal goal for yourself and just make it happen."
Thomas summed up the run with his assessment of the Marines with whom he serves.
"The Marines have small units serving in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Marine training teams all over the world," said Thomas. "We are a small, but mighty force."
This 236th birthday commemorates the continuous efforts by the Marine Corps to provide support to Third Army's mission abroad and stateside. Through 5K run/walk events Third Army is ensuring that Servicemembers continue to be ready tonight and shape the future.
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