This past Saturday April 23, Poly’s JROTC participated in the CSULB ROTC Centennial 5K run. The National Guard, and Army Reserve also participated in this event, celebrating 100 years of leadership and excellence. It took place on the CSULB Jack Rose Track on Bellflower Blvd. It began at 8 A.M. and lasted till 11 A.M. Poly’s JROTC arrived at seven wearing their JROTC PT shirts and shorts with running shoes. In order to participate, you had to register there at the event. Before the event began one of the CSULB members had everyone take a moment of silence for one of the past ROTC members, Chad Hang, who past away this spring break. His memorial service was that same day from 10 A.M. to 2 P.M. and everyone was welcomed to show their love and support for the family. Meanwhile one of the Senior Army Instructors was at the event while the other was at the memorial. “Anytime someone loses a life so young it is very tragic for a family and community. Losing a life to an act of gang violence – and honest I don’t believe in gang violence – I thought it was just heartless. Chad will be missed by Long Beach Poly JROTC,” said Sergeant Major Andrea Wright. The National Anthem was sung, and after a guest speaker spoke, Professor of Military Science LTD Justin Chezem gave a brief notice on safety and where water bottles would be located throughout the run. There were free prizes for the top five fastest runners and the fastest was 20 minutes. A CSULB ROTC student won it and received an Army bag. “That morning was a good challenge for me because I tend to get a bit competitive but besides that it was a beautiful morning for a run,” said freshman Cadet Private Javier Alcala. After the race they handed out T-shirts, hats, and stickers. They also had a table with beverages and snacks such as water bottles, candy, and granola bars for everyone. The run was a big success for everyone that attended and showed how hardworking and motivated Poly’s JROTC was.
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