5K for a cause-Incirlik supports victims of Sandy Hook tragedy

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Marissa Tucker
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  As a tribute to the 26 children and staff members killed Dec. 14, 2012 at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., members of the Incirlik community participated in a 5K memorial run Jan. 26.

More than 100 people attended the event, which was sponsored by the Starlight Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Stars and the Masonic Lodge here. At the opening ceremony, children from the Incirlik Unit School recited poems written in tribute to the children who lost their lives and Col. Brent Bigger, 39th Air Base Wing vice commander, spoke about how the tragedy affected his family.

While stationed in an overseas location, it can be easy for many to lose touch with current events from home, but Nikita Otto, memorial coordinator, said the events of Sandy Hook hit home with many people at Incirlik, which urged the organization to step into action.

"We're so busy in our own lives that sometimes we need to remember to support other people," Otto said. "A part of what we do is give back to the community, not just at Incirlik, but wherever we see a need."

The event raised more than $1,000 and the proceeds will go to the Sandy Hook School Support Fund, which provides services such as counseling and financial support to those affected by the tragedy.