OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Rain drizzled slowly over the 200 runners gathered at the Osan AB fitness center May 30, 2015. Although the fitness center typically serves as a focal point for physical training, these participants rallied together at this particular moment in order to exercise for one specific reason— the remembrance of Senior Airman Corey Stump.
Stump, an Airman who was stationed here, was known as a role model to his peers and as a hard worker within his unit. Due to his dedication, he excelled in all aspects of his life and career. In recognition of his effort and accomplishments, Stump was awarded a free trip to Jeju Island. On May 29, 2014, while on this adventure, Corey Stump lost his life in a hiking accident.
May 30 marked the Second Annual Stump Run. Runners participated in either a 5K or a half marathon. Stump’s friends and family also held shadow runs in California, Illinois, Maryland and Hawaii.
Staff Sgt. Suzanne, a friend of Stump’s, chose the half marathon; it was her first. She said after the run, “Every time I wanted to quit I could hear Stump’s voice in my head telling me, ‘Stop complaining. It’s good for you.’ It gave me the strength to keep going.”
Tech. Sgt. Jessica, another friend, reflected on her time with Stump and the importance of the Stump Run.
“I had the pleasure of being able to work with Corey during his time in the 303rd Intelligence Squadron,” she said. “Corey was known for his intensity and for always striving to be the very best at everything he touched. I think running every year in his honor is a great way to remember and embody the value of ‘Excellence In All We Do’ that he clearly held close to his heart. It’s also been a therapeutic way for those that knew him to remember him by sharing our ‘Stump Stories,’ and getting to share and pass on that little bit of Stump with those that didn’t have the pleasure of meeting him.”
Stump has taught us many lessons and this run gives us an opportunity to reflect on them.
Your life is what you make of it. It’s what you decide it will be. There is nothing more powerful than the will to do something and with that will, you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. Life is precious. Enjoy it and celebrate each day that you are alive by appreciating it.
The memories and messages Stump left behind will always be engraved within the 303rd IS. In order to share his legacy with the Osan community, the Stump Run will be an event to look forward to for many years to come.
Editor’s note: Last names have been withheld for operational security reasons.
