By Samuel Medina III/ south news editor
Students, volunteers and veterans gathered around the South Campus flagpoles in the early morning to begin their brisk 5K Marine Run.
South Campus’ Veteran Student Organization held the motivational run Nov. 10 to honor the Marine Corps’ 240th birthday and veterans everywhere.
Photo courtesy Alyssa Petty
Abdel Casiano, former VSO president, said the run was a great way to bring everyone together for an important cause.
“The run was fantastic,” he said. “It was a great way for us to go ahead and not only celebrate the Marine Corps’ birthday but also bring veteran awareness.”
Marines had a tent set up along with a giant inflatable Marine soldier in front of the campus.
“We want to let the public know that there is a cause and a need,” he said. “We still have brothers and sisters fighting. We just have to do it.”
VSO president and retired Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Tristeza Ramirez said she has had the honor to meet some of the most upstanding veterans through the VSO.
“For 240 years, the Marine Corps have celebrated their core values and traditions,” she said. “Today, all over the Marine Corps, Marines are forming up to celebrate in typical Marine fashion with the moto run.”
She said it is also important to help the young future Marines so they can be the best they can be.
“The VSO also wants to support the future leaders, The Young Marines of Fort Worth,” Ramirez said. “I have seen in this program myself how it can not only change the lives of these kids but also the families.”
People who donated to the VSO received a T-shirt.
“All of the donations that were made today with the yellow shirts will go to The Young Marines as a gift,” she said. “It is to be able to keep this ember going with these kids and meet positive role models or that need a little bit of structure.”
Staff Sgt. Jordan Garcia said the run was a great way to celebrate.
“The kindness and love people show to veterans is always incredible,” he said. “Being out here with everyone for a great cause is what makes life special. We’re all here to support each other, and there really isn’t anything else like it.”
