USAF Marathon seeks volunteers - Online registration begins May 1 Published May 4, 2009 By Sharon Erli Air Force Materiel Command Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- The 2009 U.S. Air Force Marathon may not be until September 19, but seeking volunteers to help plan and execute the race's many aspects begins May 1. That's the date registration for all volunteer positions will begin. Individuals interested in volunteering can go online to www.usafmarathon.com to see jobs, schedules, dates, times, etc. All registered volunteers will receive a goody bag, embroidered patch, T-shirt and volunteer certificate. "Volunteers are extremely important to the success of the marathon," said Allison Frey, volunteer coordinator for the marathon. "With the possibility of up to 10,000 runners participating, we will rely on volunteers for a variety of jobs, including passing out food and drinks, directing participants along the course and helping with set up for such a huge event." Marathon officials are also looking for team leads, or "key volunteers," to oversee a team of volunteers in areas including marathon expo logistics, expo and race day volunteer manpower, marathon route logistics, finish line coordination and parking, etc. "Key volunteers are especially important to us since they cover all of the places that the marathon staff can't be on race day," Frey said. "We try to prepare them for their specific duties so they can lead the other volunteers; our key volunteers are a tremendous help to us." According to Frey, "dedication" is the main characteristic the marathon office seeks in a key volunteer. Key volunteers serve as the point of contact for their respective team, and are asked to attend meetings before their scheduled work dates so they understand their responsibilities, and can prepare and direct their teams, accordingly. For more information on volunteering, contact Allison Frey at (937) 257-5052, or, visit the marathon Web site at www.usafmarathon.com .