AFGSC bases to hold half marathons Published April 24, 2012 Air Force Global Strike Command Public Affairs BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- The first-ever Air Force Global Strike Command half marathon kicks off at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., this weekend. The command-wide series continues throughout the spring and summer as each AFGSC base holds a half-marathon event, beginning with Barksdale AFB April 28 and ending with Malmstrom AFB, Mont., August 24. "The Striker Life Half Marathon is a way for Airmen to get involved in something different, and to set long-term goals," said Sean Lehr, with the AFGSC Personnel Directorate. "I think completing this marathon will really give individuals a sense of accomplishment." Lehr said the half marathon will be a professionally-run event. All competitors will be timed with timing chips, and will receive a participant shirt. Finishers will receive a finisher's medal. Bases will have refreshments during and after the race, and may have entertainment for spectators and children. The events may also include a 5K or 10K race for those who aren't ready for a half-marathon but still wish to participate. "This is not your normal 5K where you run, change into your uniform and go back to work," Lehr said. "We want this to be a first-class event." Air Force Global Strike Command will field a team for the Air Force Marathon in September, and the Striker Life Half Marathon series is designed to tie into that event. "This is a kind of prep for the Air Force marathon," said Lt. Col. Casey Sanders, AFGSC Personnel Directorate. "This can serve as a great training event for those planning to run that marathon." The Striker Life Half Marathon schedule is as follows: April 28 - Barksdale AFB, La. May 19 - Whiteman AFB, Mo. June 23 - Minot AFB, N.D. Aug. 18 - F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo. Aug. 24 - Malmstrom AFB, Mont. To sign up or for more information about the marathon at your base, see you base fitness center.