Huntsville, AL – April 23, 2007: Intrepid troopers from Alabama and Tennessee converged on the University of Alabama in Huntsville early on the morning of April 14th. Their mission: To provide support and increase event visibility for The Make-A-Wish Foundation’s annual “Walk for Wishes” event.

Although the weather was uncooperative, providing rain and lightning as a challenge to trooping activities, the day was a huge success for The Make-A-Wish Foundation. After arriving, it was decided by Make-A-Wish to cancel the “walk” portion of the event due to the threat of rain, and instead have a huge party, handing out doughnuts and coffee while accepting donations from those who had previously planned on walking. 96.9 FM was on-site with their Escalade mobile broadcast vehicle to promote the event AND the 501st.

After the troopers suited-up, the group marched to the Make-A-Wish tent near the UAH lake, where a group photo was taken. We mingled with the Make-A-Wish volunteers and staff, but within 20 minutes it started to rain. The decision was made to make a “strategic withdrawal” back to the vehicles to try and prevent damage to the costumes. The group met on the steps of the Research Building and took their gear off while waiting on the rain (and lightning) to stop.

About an hour later (and after realizing that the rain wasn’t going to stop) we decided to venture to the local Chuck E. Cheese, where we were soon met by our CO, XO, and their families who had decided to brave the weather and drive up from Birmingham. The kids enjoyed the games, while the Alabama Garrison’s command staff had their first “official” meeting (however impromptu it may have been).

A surprising amount was accomplished – both for Make-A-Wish and for the garrison. Make-A-Wish took in $12,500 for the event, and they were very grateful to the 501st for our continued support of their organization.

Many thanks to all the troopers who made the event!

Originally posted by Fetthunter
on April 23, 2007 @ 04:28 PM