Soldiers to Shadow Run the 29th Annual Firecracker 5K Run

The Firecracker Run committee is excited to announce that the Regional Support Command - Capital, 16th Sustainment Brigade Soldiers stationed in Kabul, Afghanistan will participate in  a shadow run of the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce’s 29th Annual Firecracker Run on July 4, 2013.

The 16th Sustainment Brigade Soldiers will run their own Firecracker Run on July 4, 2013 which will be O’Fallon’s July 3 because of the 9.5 hour time difference. The shadow run will provide an opportunity for over 100 soldiers to celebrate Independence Day while stationed half way around the world. Participants will have fun as well as challenge themselves while at Camp Phoenix in Afghanistan.

“Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen enjoy the shadow runs because they are great for morale, and they allow for us to be normal and not have to wear a service issued PT uniform for the run.” Maj Eric Peterson said when asked why they enjoyed shadow runs. “I would like to thank the O'Fallon Chamber of Commerce for allowing us to participate in this great event.”

The run committee will be providing each runner with a free registration that includes a bib, t-shirt, goodie bag and award medals; plus there will be booth set up at the O’Fallon Firecracker Run where residents and runners can personally thank these brave soldiers. Maj. Eric Peterson who will be leading the race in Kabul said he will be sending photos of their race, a banner signed by all the soldiers and an American flag flown in combat.

“We are so proud to be a part of our soldiers’ Independence Day celebration. I hope that we are able to give them a feeling of home, while reminding our residents here of the men and women who fight and protect us every day. Again, I can’t express how thrilled we are to be working with Maj Peterson and the SPARTANS!” said Erin Williams, President/CEO of the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce.

The 29th Annual Firecracker Run presented by Mercy will be held on July 4, 2013 at 7:00 a.m. at the T.R. Hughes Ballpark in O’Fallon, MO. More information can be found at www.FirecrackerRun.net or www.facebook.com/FirecrackerRun.

Firecracker Run proceeds benefit the mission of the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce:  The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is committed to promoting economic vitality in O’Fallon and the St. Charles County Region while providing members with networking opportunities, education, and advocacy in public policy decisions affecting business.