Rain or shine, KMC completes Viking Challenge

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Daylena Gonzalez
  • 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  Singing in the rain ... [we] are singing in the rain ... was just one of the many chants heard during this year's Viking Challenge at the Pulaski Park track, July 27 through 28.

The fundraiser was hosted by the KMC 5/6, a private organization comprised of KMC staff and technical sergeants that provide mentorship to NCOs. Rain or shine, the 24-hour run/walk-a-thon from noon to noon, challenged more than 1,500 participants, the largest turn out ever. Starting with sweltering 94-degree heat then some light showers, the elements did not seem to slow the teams.

"We are out here rain or shine every summer and every year it is a great event," said KMC 5/6 chairman, Tech. Sgt. Eric Villafana. "I'm so glad that this year I was able to be part of this fundraiser and help out."

Spirits reached as high as the day's temperature, cheers thunderous, and motivation never dwindled as lap after lap they endured and completed the 24-hour challenge.

"Everyone is completing this challenge based off [their] pledges, so the more they run the more money we raise," added Villafana.

The Viking Challenge raised money for the Fisher Houses located by the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center and other organizations throughout the Kaiserslautern Military Community. Fisher Houses provides at no cost a "home away from home" for families and patients receiving medical care at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center Landstuhl, Germany.

"Our military community is out here supporting a great fundraiser," said Vivian Wilson, Fisher Houses representative. "Fisher houses make it possible for loved ones to be at the bedside of members receiving medical care."

The 14 teams distinguished themselves dressing in costume and other bright and colorful ensembles, while others held hands, passed on flags or symbolic tokens. A U.S. Air Forces in Europe's logistics team passed a torch amongst members on the track and dressed in white sheets and crowns resembling past Olympians.

The members of team 'Maloney's Bar' dressed as leprechauns in bright green and Irish-flag capes; they were awarded the Esprit de Corps Trophy. Other team and individual awards were: most laps completed and most pledges.

Last year the KMC 5/6 presented the Fisher House with a $72,000 check. This year's goal is $100,000. The total dollar amount raised this year is still being calculated.

"Every year's event keeps raising the bar but this is the largest fundraiser so far," said Wilson. "[We] are just doing what [we] do best and that's taking care of one another.