HIANG members volunteer at Great Aloha Run

  • Published
  • 154 Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR HICKAM, Hawaii --  As the sun rose over the Ko'olau President's Day, several members of the Hawaii Air National Guard made their way to the 26th Annual Great Aloha Run as either participants or volunteers.

"It takes a special person to wake up early on a holiday morning, fight traffic, and hand out water or give medical aid to over 25,000 runners and walkers from across the globe," said Capt. Jason Matsuoka, who organized the Guard volunteers.

Approximately, 100 HIANG members volunteered to work at first aid and water stations along the 8.15 mile course from Aloha Tower to Aloha stadium. They supported both the runners and the Great Aloha Run organizers by passing out water, providing medical assistance or just giving some encouraging cheers.

"All in all, I have to say that it was a job well done and a day well spent," said Tech. Sgt. Carissa Maxson, 154th Wing Medical Group.

The HIANG was there to support the community and help make the fund-raising event a success she added. Some of the HIANG volunteers were assigned to the medical team. The majority of the injuries treated were blisters, but there were also runners with cramps, sore ankles and feet, chafing, scrapes, cuts, stomach pain, dehydration, overexertion and even a boy who had passed out. HIANG members also helped runners who requested ankle or foot wraps for support.

Tech. Sgt. Maxson and others provided first aid support on Station 3. "I'd go so far as letting people know that if they want Self Aid Buddy Care practice or just want some live, fast-paced action, come to volunteer at Station 3 next year. Help is always needed."