JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas –
The 324th Training Squadron celebrated Knight’s Day with the first 5K run hosted by an Air Force basic military training squadron March 25 at the unit’s physical training pad here.
The flights ran together in formation with their senior leadership, military training instructors and families of the 324th TRS staff.
Three trainees from each flight who embody the squadron motto of “ready for battle” were chosen as champions to represent their flights and run separately.
Choosing three champions and having MTIs run with the flights shows other trainees what it looks like and means to be ready for battle, explained Lt. Col. Sammuel Berenguer, 324th TRS commander.
“It felt inspirational for me to run with the trainees,” said Master Sgt. Eugene Kirkland, 324th TRS military training instructor. “I feel when I’m there – as a part of the flight, as a part of the squadron – I’m actually increasing their motivation, intensity and intent to finish at a higher level.”
Prior to the run, Kirkland talked to the trainees about Knight’s Day and being ready for battle, in order to prepare them for the 5K. Knights Day is a celebration of what it means to be a knight, not just bravery and combat skills, but also honor, dignity, and social justice, said Kirkland.
“Ready for battle means we’re ready to do business anytime, anyplace,” said Kirkland “Whatever it may be, whatever obstacle comes towards us, whatever challenge comes, we’re prepared to accept that challenge and move forward.“
Along with meeting challenges and being prepared, trainees must learn, lead and battle, Berenguer said.
“You have to live it,” Berenguer said. “When we tell you integrity, character and excellence, we need you live them and practice them every day.”
Berenguer goes on to say, “The battle part is: are you ready for the day when we question your integrity? Are you ready for the day when we question your physical performance? Are you ready for the day when we need you to be excellent for the mission to progress?”