Help the Red Feather Campaign help others Published Aug. 7, 2007 By Master Sgt. Ani Stubbs 35th Operations Support Squadron MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- From car washes, bike rallies to "bowl-a-thons," several organizations are working hard to raise money for the annual Red Feather Campaign. The campaign began in 1947 to help the elderly, homeless, and those facing hardships just outside our gate. Even today, 60 years later, Misawa Air Base is active in supporting the local community and all the money raised goes right to local community programs only. One of the biggest fund-raisers is the Misawa Security Operations Center's annual Red Feather Bike-a-thon, 100-kilometer ride. The ride begins in the parking lot across from Potters Fitness Center at 6 a.m. Sept. 22 and ends in Oriase Gorge. Riders and support crew should be in place at least 15 minutes before departure for sign-in and a safety briefing. A chase vehicle will follow the riders in case any issues arise. Refreshments and fresh fruits will be supplied at three rest stations along the route to Oriase Gorge. Anyone interested in riding can request a pledge sheet and map via e-mail. Participants must have a helmet and should bring their identification card, a source of water (for between rest stations) and possibly a rain jacket. The weather is unpredictable closer to the mountains and there is always a very good possibility of showers along the way. Heavy rain will postpone the ride a week. If you're not a bike enthusiast, you can still contribute to this worthwhile cause. People can help by making donations in the "Red Feather Ammo Boxes" located at the base exchange, the hospital entrance, the 35th Operations Group auditorium or by supporting one the base's larger scale fund-raising events. Numerous private organizations including the Misawa retirees and school children are working to raise money for this major bi-lateral fund raiser. With so many people and organizations participating, we are hoping this year's Red Feather Campaign will be one of the best.