NCR Airmen volunteer at D.C. Special Olympics Bowling Championship

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Matt Davis
  • Air Force District of Washington Public Affairs
More than 70 Airmen and civilians from across the National Capital Region volunteered to support athletes competing in the D.C. Special Olympics Bowling Championship Feb. 25 in Hyattsville, Md.

The event, part of the D.C. Special Olympics Winter championships, brought together more than 150 athletes from 15 local schools.

Volunteer Airmen are crucial for the event, providing not just oversight, but motivation for athletes, said Special Olympics D.C. Associate Director of Sports Anthony Sokenu.

"We are ecstatic to have the military here and have that level of professionalism to help make this championship the level of caliber we need it to be," said Sokenu. "We thank them and we are very grateful."

Volunteering for this event has special importance to Airman 1st Class Jermaine Belton of the 11th Security Forces Squadron.

"I'm from the area, born and raised here, so it feels good to be able to give back to a part of the community," said Belton. "It feels good seeing the kids happy to be here. I definitely enjoy it and I'll be volunteering again."

The event is rewarding for both competitors and the Airmen who volunteer, said Air Force District of Washington First Sergeant Chief Master Sgt. Manny Pineiro.

"It is an honor and privilege to be able support this event alongside my fellow Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines," said Pineiro. "We're proud to represent our Air Force in supporting and motivating these athletes as they find success, joy, and friendships while gaining in fitness and confidence." 

To find out more, contact AFDW's Command Volunteer Coordinator, 1st Lt. Delma Guevara at DSN: 857-3453 or visit http://www.specialolympicsdc.org/.