I signed up for the wear blue: run to remember Memorial Day event. (You might remember me mentioning wear blue: run to remember in the Marine Corps Marathon.) The goal was to have 10,000 people running at least one mile, and I committed to run five. Each runner was assigned a soldier who has died in the Global War on Terror, and I was assigned Kristoffer B. Domeij. In 2011, at the age of 29, he died of "wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device." Wikipedia tells me he holds the record for the elite ranger with the most deployments--14-- to be killed in action. Wow.
When I talked to RWD, who is 29 now, about the run and my assigned soldier, he commented that 29 is actually kind of old for a soldier in Afghanistan. How can it be that there are so many men and women RWD's age and younger who make these tremendous sacrifices for our country? With our wedding only a few weeks away, I struggle with the idea that as we are just beginning our lives together, so many people are unable to have those same experiences and joys. I am truly in awe of their sacrifices.
As yesterday was Memorial Day, the plan was to run last night, but that was derailed by the tornado watch/warning and ensuing rain that struck my town. I went out this morning instead. Although I am a dedicated run/walker, my goal was to run the five miles straight. With people out there giving their lives, the least I could do is run five miles...right?
Halfway through, the fact that I had not eaten breakfast began to settle in. I was hungry, and all I brought with me was a bottle of water. I was in the middle of a neighborhood where I didn't know anyone, so I decided to alternate jogging and walking every quarter mile for the rest of my outing. Proudly, I finished the run for Sgt. Domeij.
Although I reflected on many things as I ran this morning, perhaps the most staggering to me is the comfort I am afforded thanks to the freedom that is protected by the men and women who serve our country.
When the weather was bad last night, I didn't have to go out in it.
When I was tired, I could stop and walk.
When I was hungry, there was food waiting at the end of my route.
When I was thirsty, I had a bottle of clean water to drink.
Of course, I am also thankful for the ability to run. It is an honor to run for someone who gives the ultimate sacrifice for people like me.
No comments:
Post a Comment