RECRUITING STATION SPRINGFIELD, MA -- Seeing Marines in a formation run is commonplace for nearly every base throughout the Marine Corps, but for the city of Chicopee it is nearly unheard of. That was, of course, until the Marines of Recruiting Station Springfield decided to kick off Independence Day with a 2.5-mile run through the streets of Chicopee, Mass. July 3, 2003.
Approximately 75 Marines from Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Vermont participated in the motivational run that began at RS Springfield, looped through residential streets, and returned to the headquarters building. "I think it touches base with what the Forth of July is really about," said Maj. Alan Thoburn III, RS Springfield commanding officer. "It's about fireworks, it's about apple pie, but it's truly about our independence and our independence has been hard earned and the Marine Corps has had a very large part in that."
The Marines were not the only ones who enjoyed the run, many local area residents came out to support the Marines by waving flags, holding posters and clapping as the Marines ran by. "There were people out on their porches saying, 'thank you,' waving Marine Corps Flags, waving American Flags, people were getting out of their cars, beeping their horns, yelling 'thank you,' people were coming out of businesses ... it was just a great reception," said Capt. Matthew D. Fehmel, RS Springfield executive officer. "We don't do this sort of thing that often, so when the Marines can get an opportunity to do Marine things that we don't do very often it reminds them of their days in the Fleet Marine Force and they get out there and yell cadence and clap their hands ... it's fun and the Marines love doing it."
"It was pretty motivating to see the other people out there supporting us," said Capt. Lisa M. Souders, RS Springfield officer selection officer. "You hear about all this stuff on the news, but to actually be a part of the formation and seeing it was definitely impressive and to know that we have that support from the local public."
For some recruiters, this was the first motivational formation run they have participated in since their tour began as a recruiter. "It's been about two years since I did something like this and it was a good way to show our appreciation, not only to the civilians but also for the people who work for us," said Staff Sgt. David L. Miller Jr., Recruiting Substation Hartford noncommissioned officer-in-charge.
Following the run, the Marines participated in a chili cook off. Each RSS was asked to submit one bowl of chili for the competition. Good tasting chili alone, however, could not win the competition. A panel of three judges rated each RSS based on presentation, taste, color, texture, smell and heat.
When the chili smoke cleared there was one clear winner, RSS Norwich with their Semper Fi Dog Chow. The chili was served in a dog's dish with a dog-bone spoon as a serving device. When the Marines presented their chow to the judges, one Marine raced across the floor barking like a dog, while another explained to the judges that his dog only eats Semper Fi brand food.
Overall, the Marines of RS Springfield were able to take a break from their fast-paced duties and enjoy a day of camaraderie and physical fitness before celebrating our Nation's Independence the following day.