Army celebrates birthday with 5k

Published June 18, 2013
By Airman 1st Class Jelani Gibson
82nd Training Wing Public Affairs

SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Army Soldiers in training here celebrated their service's 238th birthday June 15 by running a 5k through rain-drenched streets.

The run was a joint effort between the Army and the Air Force's 366th Training Squadron's booster club.

"We get an opportunity to celebrate who we are," said 1st Lt. Kelly Sika, U.S. Army D company executive officer. "It represents who we are past, present and future."

Early on into the run, as the rain started to heavily hit both asphalt and runners alike, Sika and the others didn't let the weather dampen their moods.

"If it ain't raining we ain't training," she said. "Rain or shine we're outside."

As the run ended and exhausted participants took breaks through swigs of water and fruit, Sika was pleased with the overall event participation.

"I think it went great," she said. "We had a good turnout."

The Lieutenant, while on an Air Force base, enjoys what she does as a Soldier and the role she plays in their lives.

"It's nice to be here training Soldiers," she said. "We have an impact and first impression on them."

The event reached its crescendo as the national anthem was played and a ceremonial sword was used to meticulously slice the celebration cake with multiple branches present.

"We all do work together," Sika said. "We're all special in our own way,"

Happy Birthday U.S. Army.