Running with the Bulls a stomping success Published Nov. 10, 2011 By Joel Langton 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The "Bulls" and nearly 400 of their friends galloped through the streets of Del Rio Nov. 5, raising more than $40,000 for a local food bank. The effort was a 5 kilometer fun run named, Running with the Bulls, that was a joint effort of Loaves and Fishes, the area's largest food bank and members of the 87th Flying Training Squadron. The two teamed up for nearly six months, raising money through sponsorships and then registering nearly 400 runners. "This event wouldn't have been nearly as successful without the team from the 87th FTS, they helped us raise money, helped us raise awareness of our efforts and receive donations of nearly three pick-up trucks of food," said Bill Cauthorn, Loaves and Fishes board president. According to Capt. David Guenthner, event director from the 87th FTS, it was simple for them. "We found out about the need to support Loaves and Fishes," said Guenthner. "There is nothing worse than the thought of people going hungry and we wanted to step in and do what we could." The effort received accolades from throughout the area. "This is critical to our efforts to meet all of our citizens needs," said Bobby Fernandez, Del Rio mayor. However, the 87th FTS commander wanted to make one thing very clear. "The 87th did a lot of work on this," said Lt. Col. Rusty Keen, 87th FTS commander. "However, the important thing is that everyone worked together. There are volunteers from the Girl Scouts out here, we have people from every unit on base running. This is just an example of people working together. Col. Thomas Murphy, 47th Flying Training Wing commander, agreed. At the awards ceremony, he said: "This is what happens when everyone comes together with a common goal." Keen and Cauthorn said plans were being made for next year's event.