ROTC 5k run supports student scholarships

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Registration is open for a 5k event in April on the campus of Western Michigan University in honor of an alumnus who was killed in action while serving in the U.S. Army in Afghanistan.

The WMU ROTC Capt. Drew Russell Memorial 5k Walk/Run will take place from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 1. Registration is $15 to receive a cotton event shirt and $25 with a moisture-wicking shirt.

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Capt. Drew Russell of Scotts earned his commission as a Second Lieutenant in Armor through WMU's ROTC program. He was stationed in Fort Carson, Colorado, and also Afghanistan, where he was killed Oct. 8, 2011 in Kandahar Province. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart for his actions in battle. In remembrance, an endowed scholarship was established; and all proceeds from the run go toward a scholarship for deserving WMU students to help offset costs for their education.

The 5k course begins at WMU's Army ROTC Battalion at the Activities Therapy Building, 1312 Oakland Dr., and weaves through WMU's main campus. One water station will be at the half-way point. Refreshments and prizes are available at the end of the race back at the Battalion.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit wmich.edu/news.