Special Olympics brings joy to Yokota volunteers

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Val Gempis
  • Air Force Print News
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (AFPN) --  More than 700 American and Japanese volunteers helped make the 26th Annual Kanto Plain Special Olympics a rousing success, officials said.

But for some of the volunteers, seeing the May 7 and 8 event succeed is not the only reason they came.

“I’m so happy to see the joy on the athlete’s faces,” said Tech. Sgt. Melissa Popejoy, a cargo ramp specialist from the 730th Air Mobility Squadron. “They remind me of my brother who also participates in these events back in the states.”

Sergeant Popejoy has volunteered at Special Olympics the past five years. She said she does so because it helps her feel close to her 26-year-old brother who has seizures and learning disabilities as a result of spinal meningitis.

Even though her brother is thousands of miles away, she said she feels like she is helping him by volunteering.

Officials said Special Olympics has opened up a world where athletes can achieve goals and experience competition. It has changed the lives of people looking for inspiration or wanting to inspire. Worldwide, the events have touched the lives of millions, including athletes, family members, volunteers, coaches and donors.

“I also take my two kids to help,” Sergeant Popejoy said. “We’ve been huggers, greeters, scorekeepers and statisticians. They clap, cheer and really enjoy themselves here. Hopefully, Special Olympics will have a positive impact on their lives.”

This year, the air mobility squadron Airmen made and handed out hundreds of medals and ribbons to participants.

“I love coming here,” said 1st Lt. Kenneth Raszinski of the 374th Services Division and event director. “This event brings Americans and Japanese closer together.”

The lieutenant said he began planning for the event in October.

The biggest challenge was coordinating with 20 off-base schools, he said.

This year, more than 400 athletes participated in 42 sporting events like basketball, softball throw, bowling, and track and field.

“It’s amazing to see how well the base and the local community worked together for the athletes here,” Lieutenant Raszinski said. “Seeing them smile makes you feel proud.”

Master Sgt. James Percy, a first-time volunteer from the 374th Medical Group’s bio-environmental flight, said he did not know what to expect. He was quickly amazed at how good and competitive the athletes were.

“It’s incredible to see how fast they can run,” Sergeant Percy said. “They compete hard. They have so much heart.”

He said the best part of the event was when the athletes shook his hand and gave him a hug.

“You get nothing but good feelings here,” the sergeant said. “I should have been doing this a long time ago.”