We are writing today to express our gratitude and thanks to everyone who joined together to make the Megan McClung Memorial Run a very successful fundraising effort for the Semper Fi Fund.

This year we had 222 runners at NAS Whidbey who experienced beautiful weather and a well-organized event; at the same time we supported 550-plus runners who competed in the austere conditions aboard Camp Leatherneck in Afghanistan.

With race entry fees and generous donations from supporters and sponsors, we were able to net just over $10,000 to be donated to the Semper Fi Fund, an increase of $3,000 over last year! These funds help provide relief from financial needs that arise during hospitalization and recovery as well as quality of life expenses such as specialized adaptive equipment and transportation.

We also want to thank the Marines of MATSG-53 who initiated the event in 2007 and have been steadfast partners in the execution of this run each year on NAS Whidbey. Kudos to Col. Close and the detachment of motivated men and women who completed the 10K run in formation:  what an impressive sight! We are grateful to the volunteers from the Fleet Readiness Center, Northwest, and our sponsors including Banner Bank, Walgreens, Albertsons, the Jewelry Gallery and Windermere Real Estate.

Special thanks go to Byron Sprague, general manager of Roger Jobs Motors and Audi of America for their generous sponsorship of the electronic timing (a new addition this year!). The Northwest Navigator’s advertisements for the run brought us enhanced visibility and contributed to our success.

Megan would be proud that so many runners and walkers got out and joined in the run. She believed that physical exercise, while improving the body, also clears the mind and elevates the spirit.

Thank you all so much! We hope to see you all back next year!

Mike and Re McClung
Coupeville