Airmen march 47 miles for USO Delaware

  • Published
  • By Capt. Marnee A.C. Losurdo
  • 512th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
At 3:30 p.m. May 22, five Dover Air Force Base Airmen finished a 47-mile ruck march from New Castle to Dover in 22 hours and 30 minutes while carrying 35-pound ruck sacks. 

Eleven Airmen originally started the march at 5 p.m. May 21 at the New Castle air base, headquarters of the Delaware Air National Guard. 

The Airmen are fuels specialists with the 436th Logistics Readiness Squadron and the Air Force Reserve's 512th Airlift Wing's Logistics Readiness Flight here. 

Tech. Sgt. David Jackson, 30, organized the march last year to celebrate his college graduation from Wilmington University and to support a good cause, which is to raise money and awareness of the United Service Organizations. 

This year, he decided to continue the tradition, because he wanted to continue supporting the USO and all they do to assist his fellow service members. In all, the Airmen raised $500 and other donations were still coming in, said Sergeant Jackson. 

USO Delaware Volunteers Lisa Stagg and Joan Cote, plus friends, family and fellow wing members met the Airmen at the finish line, the base flag pole on Dover AFB. 

"All donors are important to the USO, especially troops who raise money for their brothers and sisters, they're a step above," said Ms. Cote. 

The Airmen used the same route as last year which included State Route 13, crossing over the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal at the Reedy Point Bridge in Delaware City, and back onto Route 13 through Smyrna on their way to Dover. 

They wore safety reflective belts for the entire journey and used flash lights during the night, which is a state requirement when walking on the road at night. 

Despite the long hours and physical challenges, he said he felt more prepared due to last year's experience. 

"I feel good, better than last year," he said. 

He attributes part of this to the medic who assisted them along the way. 

"None of this would have been possible without the combat medic who took care of us," said Airman 1st Class Joseph Pelkey, 21, with the 436th LRS. 

Army Staff Sgt. Mike Stagg, son of Ms. Stagg who volunteers with USO Delaware, is assigned to the 4th Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Polk, La. He dressed the Airmen's blisters throughout their journey to Dover. 

To prepare for this 47-mile challenge Sergeant Jackson said he works out three times a week and does other ruck marches, such as the 436th Security Forces Squadron's annual ruck march, throughout the year. 

Even with all the training, Sergeant Jackson said the long miles and hours took their toll, but in the end it was all worth it. 

Fellow ruck marcher Airman 1st Class Les Busser with the 436th LRS said he agrees. 

"Right now, I feel horrible and want to take a shower; but, it was still a good challenge, and the USO was with us the whole way," he said. 

The Airmen also had the support of their family, friends and co-workers, added Sergeant Jackson. "It has been a real team effort." 

As to whether they will do it next year, Sergeant Jackson said that is to be determined. 

"We'll let the wounds heal first and see," he said.