World Marathon Challenge 30 Jan '18

My name is Byron Ball a Firefighter that goes by the nickname "Fire Ball". Currently I serve as a First Sergeant in the Air Force stationed at Grand Forks, North Dakota. My passions are taking care of people, lifting weights, cooking and running. I have been married to my beautiful wife Gina for 15 years, we have two children Nyla and Breyden.

I'm currently slotted to attend the 2018 World Marathon Challenge ® from 30 January to 6 February.
http://worldmarathonchallenge.com/competitors/  

This is the only event that offers the opportunity to run 7 Half-Marathons, on 7 Continents, in 7 Days and this is something I would love to accomplish.  Many of my friends think I'm insane for attempting this feat of 7, 7, 7.5. I'm running this for two reason: 1) to inspire people all around the world to Dream Big! 2) to provide support to our military and their families!!  This endevaor allows me to combine my passion for running with a lifelong respect and admiration for an Air Force hero.

This run is dedicated to  Chief Master Sergeant Richard L. Etchberger.  Chief Etchberger was postumaously presented the militaries highest honor for Valor, the Medal of Honor on 21 September 2010, by President Barack Obama. Chief Etchberger helped to save the lives of 3 comrades during the Battle of Lima Site 85 on March 11, 1968. I'm working with the Etchberger Family to raise money for the Chief Etchberger Foundation. 

This year marks the 50th Anniversary of Battle of Lima Site 85 and there will be a Memorial and Monument Unveiling at the The Air Force Enlisted Heritage Research Institute at Maxwell AFB-Gunter Annex.

We are recognizing not only Chief Etchberger, but the the 12  men that gave thier lives on that  day. 

With your donations the Chief Etchberger Foundation will continue their efforts by supporting service and leadership awards, support for families of Airmen, and donations to appropriate individuals and organizations, and other appropriate causes.

Please follow my Journey:
Facebook Page:  Byron G Ball 
Instagram: Run Fire Ball

For a more detailed account please check out the official biography:  At All Cost (The true story of Vietnam War Hero Chief Master Sgt Dick Etcherger), by Matt Proieti

http://www.chiefetchbergerfoundation.org/   

Video of the Medal of Honor presentation:
https://youtu.be/HrQCVCWT_HQ 

List of the 12 Brave Men:
http://www.chiefetchbergerfoundation.org/never-forget.html 


If you would like to send the donations directly please use the following methods:

Pay pal:

[email redacted]

Mail a check or money order:

Cheif Etchberger Foundation
4908 Bennington Dr
Schwenksville, PA 19473

Thank you for the contined support!!!

This campaign is not sanctioned, supported or in any way affiliated with the United States Air Force or Department of Defense.