Sailors, Marines and the Kitsap community gathered at Central Kitsap High School for “Relay for Life,” a fund raising
event for the American Cancer Society, June 21.
Relay for Life, a 24-hour community event, raises funds for the American Cancer Society. The non-profit society
founded in 1913 works to prevent and find a cure for cancer and helps those afflicted with various types of cancer.
Sailors and Marines from Naval Base Kitsap, Bangor played their part by helping organizers set up the event.
“It’s great to have the service members come out here to support the event,” said Season Oltmann, American Cancer
Society staff partner. “They have set up tents for us, and while here, they decided to form a team.”
Some Sailors say they participated to give back to the community and aid in cancer research as well.
“This is my first time participating in this event, and I originally came out to support a friend of mine,” said Lt. Dustin
Roberts, Naval Submarine Support Center (NSSC) Medical Officer and Team Anytime Fitness relay member. “This was a
great opportunity to support our team and also assist the fight against cancer.”
Roberts believes the U.S. Navy does what it can to help fight cancer and says more service members should join in
events such as Relay for Life.
“As a doctor, we’re always fighting cancer,” said Roberts. “The Navy medicine program has several programs involved
with this cause. If we have more service members actively involved and aware, we could drastically reduce the number
of cancer cases in their retirement. This is something that many young service members are concerned with and this is
a cause which could possibly make them.”
The service members made a great impression on the event coordinators, who said their work goes hand-and-hand with
many of the functions of the community.
“Service members are great,” said Tim Roller, event chairman. “Kitsap County is a military community, and we would like to
recognize the work of our service members. This is a community event and they are a big part of our community.”
“An event such as this brings awareness,” said Command Master Chief Mitchell Erhardt, USS Ohio (SSGN 726) (Gold) chief of
the boat. “Anytime you have the community come together for a cause is a good thing.”