Running for the holidays: Pope annual Toy Trot brings out creativity

Published Dec. 11, 2009
By Rhonda Griffin
43rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs

POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- For those who saw Santa and his reindeer chasing presents through the streets of Pope Friday afternoon - no, the Christmas season has not brought about insanity. It was actually time for the second annual Toy Trot.

About 360 participants, many dressed in some crazy holiday attire, ran the 1.1-mile route in full holiday spirit. The event, which is sponsored by the Company Grade Officers' Council, collected about 180 gifts for the Pope Chapel's Angel Tree program.

"We wanted to encourage people to give gifts to the children, and we wanted to make it fun," said Capt. Dana Parker, 2nd Airlift Squadron.

In addition to spreading some holiday cheer, individuals and squadrons were judged on their costumes and creativity, along with most toys donated and most spirit. Keeping in tune with this year's theme, "Fun and Family," a few Pope spouses were judges of the event.

"It's a great opportunity for units on Pope to get together and start the season out right, with charity and fun," said 2nd Lt. Ben Muse, 3rd Aerial Port Squadron. "There are some inventive people here who really get into the event and put a lot of thought into their costumes. It's just a lot of fun and a good way to unwind on a Friday."

The group winners for the day were:

Spiffiest Squadron - 43rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
Most Spirited Squadron - 43rd Medical Operations Squadron
Most Toys Donated - 43rd Contracting Squadron