TR Sailors Run to Commemorate CPO Mess

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) participated in the Chief Petty Officer's 5k Anchor Run at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek, April 2.

This event was held in part to honor and raise awareness about the 120th birthday of the Chief Petty Officer rank.

"This is a chance not only for the military, but for all Department of Defense employees to come out and celebrate this event as a whole," said Builder Senior Chief Jason Holden, official coordinator of the run.

"This is a great day for everyone to celebrate and participate in an event that builds comaradarie and helps us reflect where we have been as a whole," said Roosevelt's Command Master Chief Jack Calison.

After registration, runners were able to receive a medal, a shirt commemorating the event, and a special coin upon completion of the race. Everyone who participated in the race helped contribute toward a greater cause. All proceeds collected are donated to a chief petty officer's college scholarship fund.

"Paying the registration fees for this event is a small price," said Holden. "All the proceeds go to help a child reach his or her potential in life."

The race path was a mix of many terrains that tested everyone's endurance.

"This race was very challenging, "said Yeoman 3rd Class Ronnie Jones, a member of the aircraft carrier's run club, Rough Runners. "The race went from pavement to sand dunes and dirt then back to streets."

As the race came to an end, Theodore Roosevelt produced the fastest athlete of the day. Fire Controlman 3rd Class Bryce Perkins was the first person to cross the finish line, followed shortly by Aviation Boatswain Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Carmine Bosco.

"Everyone at this event put forth the greatest effort," said Perkins, "It was really a great thing to see."

Anyone interested in joining Theodore Roosevelt's run club should email Interior Communication Specialist 3rd Class Laura Auer. Doing this will get their name put on the email distribution list, which contains all upcoming meetings and runs, as well as, pertinent information. Auer stresses that all runners of all abilities are encouraged to join.

For more news from USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn71/.