Team Minot SF members pass the torch for Special Olympics Published June 15, 2016 By Senior Airman Kristoffer Kaubisch Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT, N.D. -- Team Minot security forces members participated in the 2016 Law Enforcement Torch Run in Minot, North Dakota, June 9. The annual North Dakota event, which began in 1985, raises awareness and funds for Special Olympics North Dakota and the State Summer Games. Over 30 Airmen from Minot Air Force Base participated in the event this year. "The torch run is important, not only to raise money for the Special Olympics, but also to show unity between all the law enforcement agencies in the state," said Staff Sgt. Kody LeBaron, 5th Security Forces Assistant noncommissioned officer in charge of Electronic Security Systems. The run started at Minot AFB's main gate and ended nearly 15 miles away at a restaurant down town. The long distance combined with the summer heat made for a trying, yet positive experience. "I had never ran that distance in my life, so it was great being pushed to finish knowing I was supporting a good cause," LeBaron said. "It was very fun to do the run." Although the run has a very specific purpose, it doesn't hurt to allow some friendly competition along the way, with prizes for placing in the top three runners to finish the race. "I got involved to support a great cause," LeBaron said. "With that said, I also wanted to participate with my squadron and represent the 5th SFS!" In North Dakota alone, Law Enforcement Torch Run events raise more than $145,000 annually in support of Special Olympics North Dakota.