5K relief run for Japanese victims to be held at Laughlin Published May 5, 2011 By Senior Airman Scott Saldukas 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Laughlin's Top Three organization has scheduled a 5-kilometer run to support the Japan recovery efforts that begins at the Losano Fitness Center here June 4. The Top Three's relief fundraiser in support of Operation Tomodachi is to provide support for the earthquake and tsunami victims in Japan through a donation to the Japanese Red Cross. "I wanted to do a fundraiser to offer monetary aid to the Japanese victims because it's the right thing to do," said Master Sgt. Mary Ann Navarro-Davis, 47th Force Support Squadron Career Development superintendent. "I just recently arrived here from Kadena Air Base, Japan about two months ago, only a few weeks after the tragedy occurred." The sergeant noted how she wanted to put an event like this together earlier but had limited options. "I did the same relief effort at Kadena during the Haiti tragedy and was very successful with it, so I wanted to do the same for the Japanese victims," Sergeant Navarro-Davis said. Stepping up and lending an able hand is not only the mindset of Sergeant Navarro-Davis but is the reason of the relief run. "People should be a part of this event because it's the right thing to do," Sergeant Navarro-Davis said. "I've always been taught it's better to give than to receive and to always count your blessings. Giving to others in need is always a good gesture and a blessing to those who receive it." She said since we are unable to focus our energy toward any other effort physically, our only way to help out is through monetary donation." "Bottom line, we need to open our hearts and consider this plight as our own, regardless if we are thousands of miles away," Sergeant Navarro-Davis said. "I feel blessed to have been given the opportunity to initiate this fundraiser. I know that Team XL will pull together and make this event a huge success." The event is open to all Department of Defense identification card holders with a minimum five-dollar donation and T-shirts will be available for purchase at the event. Any donation is excess of five dollars is greatly appreciated, Sergeant Navarro-Davis said. All proceeds will be donated to the Japanese Red Cross in a relief effort for the recent earthquake and tsunami. For more information on how to register, contact Sergeant Navarro-Davis at 830-298-5074.