Running is good for the Seoul

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Stephenie Wade
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  Through an extensive 16-week training schedule, the Fiends for Knights were finally ready to compete March 21 in the 26.2 mile Seoul International Marathon. "Training was tough, especially when we were running in the coldest months of the year, but it was for a good cause," said Lt. Col. Ralph Waite, 36th Fighter Squadron commander.

The Fiends for Knights, consisting of 14 Osan members, didn't participate in the marathon solely for exercise -- they had a larger goal -- raising money for an organization called Knights of Heroes.

Knights of Heroes is a summer camp in Colorado Springs, Colo., geared towards boys who have lost their fathers serving in the military. Maj. Steve Harrold, 51st Fighter Wing, chief of inspections, created Knights of Heroes in November of 2006 after losing a close friend in Iraq. He developed the program as a way to honor his friend and to provide mentorship to his two young boys.

"The camp is important to me because the sons of fallen military members have a need for male mentorship," the major said. "If something happened to me, I would want someone to be there for my boys."

The major said the boys get to spend time doing things they may never get to do in the absence of their father. "It builds their confidence and gives them tools they can use as they grow and develop into men."

Families with boys between the ages of 10 and 17 are invited to attend at no cost. The boy's mom and sister(s) are invited and activities are provided for them while the boys are at camp. Lodging and travel arrangements are made for families who attend from outside the local area.

The approximate cost of sponsoring a camper is $500 per family member. Sponsorships cover the camper's flight, food, camp shirts and lodging/travel expenses. All sponsors receive a video at the conclusion of the camp showing the impact they had on a group of very deserving young men.

"This is a great program and I'm proud to have been able to do something to help young men who have lost their fathers," Colonel Waite said. "Our group has already raised more than $2,000 which is enough to sponsor two families. We hope to raise even more," he added. "Everyone involved in the fundraiser is honored to have helped such a worthwhile cause."

For more information or to become a sponsor, visit www.knightsofheroes.org.