139th News

Airmen survive zombie run

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Michael Crane
  • 139th Airlift Wing
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. --  The Junior Enlisted Council (JEC) of the 139th Airlift Wing, Missouri Air National Guard, hosted its inaugural zombie 5k in St. Joseph, Mo., April 11, 2015.

About 40 Airmen participated in the event either as runners, zombies, or support.

"We had a great turn out," said Tech. Sgt. Mike Morris, who is the secretary for the JEC. "The weather was perfect."

The runners, or survivors, wore flag football belts while the zombies chased them along the Riverfront Park.

"We had chiefs and colonels dressed up as zombies," said Morris. "Some of them even had their PT test that morning. We had great support from wing leadership for this event."

"About half of the runners made it across the finish line without getting their flags pulled," said Morris.

Maj. Jeff Davis from the 139th Security Forces Squadron was the first place survivor.

Seven Airmen dressed up as the zombies including Staff Sgt. Ryan Simbro, president of the JEC.

Simbro said some of the bystanders watching had to take a double look when they saw the zombies.

"The makeup looked really good," said Simbro. "Everyone had a blast."

Tech. Sgt. Mendy Servaes, who works in the 139th Maintenance Group, did the makeup.

Col. Ralph Schwader, commander of the 139th Airlift Wing, was also a zombie.

Simbro said he 'caught' the most runners capturing 10 flags. Simbro captured eight flags.

Simbro said the event helps promote physical fitness, but also helps fund enlisted members who wish to attend the Missouri National Guard Association Conference later this month. The JEC raised $510 from the run.

"With the great turnout this year, we would like to host another run next year," said Simbro.