State Special Olympics marks 40 years Published April 30, 2008 By Staff Sgt. Tanya Holditch Keesler News KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, MISS. -- May 16-18 is the 40th anniversary of Special Olympics Mississippi. Keesler has hosted the state-level competitions for 23 years. Before that, Keesler members assisted with local-level competitions. More than 3,000 Keesler volunteers have teamed up to host the event for 800 competitors in 25 sports. Volunteers are still needed for the nerve center, awards setup, feeding tent, softball, tennis ball throw, shot put and bocce and other events. To volunteer, call 376-7667. "There's no way we could put on an event like this without Keesler's help," said Helen Parish, SOMS president. "I think the Airmen benefit more than the athletes because of the bonding that happens." "The support we provide, while important, pales in comparison with what the athletes give us," said Col. Richard Pierce, 81st Training Wing vice commander. "A few years back at the Seattle Games, one athlete fell down during the 100-yard dash and began crying. Instead of continuing on, the other eight went back to help the fallen athlete. All nine locked arms and walked across the finish line together for a nine-way tie for first place. "They demonstrated that, in life, it's not how many times you win that's important, but how many times you help others win. These athletes inherently understand this simple truth that many of us have so easily forgotten," he added. "Working with the athletes teaches the Airmen something about life and about how lucky they are to have perfect health," said Janie Allen, SOMS public relations director. "The Airmen also realize how lucky the athletes are by seeing how much fun the athletes have and how talented they are. They learn not to group everyone together and to see people as individuals." "The first time I volunteered to help with Special Olympics, I was hooked for life," said Jackie Pope, Keesler's deputy project officer. "Just seeing the joy on the athletes' faces, you feel you have in some small way contributed to that." "When everyone leaves on Sunday, you'll see a lot of teary eyes," said Ms. Allen. "We have athletes who are still in touch with their Airman sponsors from years ago. It's a lifelong friendship for some." "To most athletes, it is the highlight of their year," said Ms. Parish. "We have had athletes who've come to Keesler and have never been out of their home county. They're excited all year about coming back."