Base 2 Base March to kick off in May

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Jake Chappelle
  • 512th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  People are encouraged to sign up for the 3rd annual Base 2 Base March, scheduled May 20 at the Delaware Air National Guard wing headquarters, in New Castle, Del. at 5 p.m.

The event is a 47-mile ruck march which will begin at the Guard base and is scheduled to end here at the base flag pole about 2 p.m., May 21.

"The march is important," said Tech. Sgt. David Jackson, 512th Logistics Readiness Flight Air Reserve Technician. "It gives us the opportunity to sacrifice a little time and pain to honor our brothers and sisters of the U.S. armed forces and the sacrifices they and their families make every day."

The significance of the march can mean something different for each participant, as indicated by Sergeant Jackson.

"Initially, it represented the long and challenging journey it took for me to complete my Bachelor of Science degree," he said.

According to the 10-year veteran, the beginning and finishing points represent the link between Total Force integration.

The walk starts at an Air National Guard base and finishes at a regular Air Force base with a Reserve associate wing, he said.

The United Service Organizations play a big role in the walk as well, said Sergeant Jackson. The USO has always supported our troops and families. The march also pays tribute to the volunteer hours and support they give to the military day in and day out.

"The USO Delaware is thrilled that Sergeant Jackson has honored us with his Base 2 Base March," said Joan Cote, USO Delaware director. "It brings awareness about the USO and also provides funding to support his military peers. It's pretty remarkable that this Air Force member takes time away from his family life after a hectic work schedule to coordinate and complete this incredible event year after year. I don't think many people realize what a difficult task the march is. That's pretty impressive," she added.

Those who wish to march must pay a $25 registration fee. Anyone can participate.

Sergeant Jackson suggests packing a backpack with basic necessities such as extra socks, water, snacks, clothes, first aid kit, flashlight, which is mandatory by Delaware law when walking during hours of darkness, and anything else a participant may feel necessary to bring. There are plenty of stops along the route to replenish water. It's not required to finish the entire walk.

USO Delaware will provide volunteers to help along the way with water, snacks, bandages, and spare socks, said Ms. Cote. Basically, anything walkers might need will be provided.

Due to the march not being an official military event, uniforms are not allowed.

For members who would like to participate but not walk, they can volunteer and assist with checking on walkers and giving rides home, if needed.

Any questions on how to get involved with the Base 2 Base march, contact Sergeant Jackson at base2base2010@yahoo.com or (302) 632-3017.