Boston 'Fun Run' Marathon inspires participants Published May 16, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Jelani Gibson 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- A run to support the victims of the tragedy at the Boston Marathon this year was held here May 15 by the 366th Training Squadron and 82nd Medical Operations Squadron booster clubs. The event was a marathon to honor the victims that were injured and killed in the Boston bombing that left three people dead and injured hundreds more. The event was sponsored through the 366th TRS Top 3 and raised an end total of $1,514. The goal was to cumulatively run or walk 282 miles, with each mile representing a person who was injured or killed. "It really hit home for all of us," said Capt. Emily Skinner, 82nd MDOS Behavioral Optimization Program OIC. Skinner looked at the process as one that was challenging to plan, but still gratifying. "It's been complicated, but at the same time inspirational," Skinner said. Others who helped plan the event were satisfied with how support for the event itself turned out. "We wanted to make it exciting for everyone," said Airman 1st Class Desmond Greer, a mental health technician for the 82nd MDOS. "I was surprised at how well it went." Skinner looked at the reception as a confirmation to how invested people were. "The reception has been phenomenal across the base," Skinner said. "This makes us united and stronger." The event was looked at by some planners as a way to honor the victims and to achieve something that was bigger than themselves. "To collectively see something like this come together is good," said Lt. Ryan Ogilvy, a clinical social worker for the 82nd MDOS. Skinner saw the event as something that showed solidarity in the face of adversity. "It shows our dedication to our country and to defend against those who would compromise our freedom," Skinner said.