LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Approximately 100 special needs athletes competed in soccer and volleyball during the Special Olympics held at Langley Oct. 11.
Langley is the only military installation that hosts Special Olympics Virginia for Area 22.
After transferring to Langley, Felicia Johnson didn't see many events for special needs children. The wife of Senior Master Sgt. Gerald Johnson, Air Combat Command fire emergency services inspector, said they then tapped into the Special Olympics program.
"It was really good for them socially and activities wise," said Mrs. Johnson.
More than 100 volunteers from the Langley community as well as volunteers from the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard helped with the event.
"My family has been involved with Special Olympics; my father used to volunteer when he was a fire fighter," said Senior Airman Andrew Kehoe, 1st Civil Engineer Squadron fire protection journeyman. "He explained to me how good it felt to help out, so I decided to help out. "
Langley holds this event to support the community, especially the children with special needs, said Doug Faber, 1st Civil Engineer Squadron fire department assistant chief of training.
"We get our people involved with people with special needs, they find out that it's nothing to be afraid of," said Mr. Faber.
There were first, second, and third prize ribbons for the winners, as well as ribons for every athlete who competed.
"We wanted to make sure all the athletes were recognized," said Mr. Faber.
Mrs. Johnson hopes this event continues since it enhances community ties.
"I think it would be a shame if it didn't," said Mrs. Johnson.