Naval District Washington hosted a 5-kilometer race to help benefit the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C., April 28.

More than 50 runners endured the steady and cold rain to participate in the first 5K race as a culminating event for the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Active Duty Fund Drive.

"It was awesome to see that many showed up during that torrential downpour to include Admiral Lindsey and General Hudson," said Lt. Cmdr. Micaela Lee, NDW assistant deputy director, strategy and future requirements. "It tells me that the Sailors and Marines wholeheartedly believe in [the] 'for your own, by your own' motto of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. It has aided so many Sailors and Marines and we want to ensure that it continues to be a place for those who need [to] get help."

The race was free for everyone, but a donation was encouraged for those willing to contribute with the proceeds going towards the NMCRS ADFD.

"We did not expect the support we got for this race," said Lee. "We were really impressed with the turnout and the amount of motivation of the runners. I think their spirit helped to make the weather a little better during the run since it stopped at one point."

In addition to fundraising, the race served as a way for Sailors, Marines and employees to bond, socialize and get out of the daily routine while helping not only the NMCRS but also their fellow Sailors and Marines around the fleet.

"This event raised more than $300 [and] considering the weather and the amount of people that supported the event, it was a very good amount of funds [raised], which will benefit the society as a whole," said Lee. "Another aspect that isn't discussed is the fact that the majority of the volunteers for the event were active duty Sailors and Marines who all showed up in droves in spite of the rain. These sorts of events really help to build esprit de corps amongst the active duty volunteers and participants."

Lee praised the support given by the installation's Morale, Welfare and Recreation, and Security Departments during the event.

"The logistical support from Mr. Mike Perry and his team at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling was superb," said Lee. "They exerted the same time and effort for our small event that they normally due for much larger events, which was greatly appreciated. It went a long way in making it a smooth operation."

NMCRS provides financial assistance and education and other programs and services to members of the Navy and Marine Corps, their eligible family members, widows and survivors. The society is also responsible for receiving and managing donated funds to administer these programs and services.

To donate towards the NMCRS ADFD contact your command key person or visit http://nmcrsfunddrive.org/

For more news from Naval District Washington, visit http://www.navy.mil/.