Turkey Trot raises $1,800 for local charity Published Nov. 17, 2009 By Janaé Daniels AEDC/PA Arnold Air Force Base, Tenn. -- AEDC's annual Turkey Trot gobbles up $1,800 for a local nonprofit organization. More than 180 participants ran to benefit the Good Samaritan organization in Tullahoma, Tenn. Good Samaritan is a nonprofit organization that provides social services to local citizens in need by assisting with transportation to doctor visits, purchasing much-needed medications, helping with utility bills, providing coats, blankets and operating a food pantry for needy families. Participants had the option to either run the 5K race or the 1.5 mile trail-walk/run. According to Capt. Aaron Finley, event organizer and president of the Company Grade Officers' Council, the money raised this year was a 47 percent increase compared to last year's donation. "The Company Grade Officers' Council had a blast putting on such a great event for the AEDC community," the captain said. "Any time you can combine fun, fellowship with your fellow co-workers, and some healthy fitness, it's a great day. What makes it really special is we made a lot of money for a fantastic local charity." Coats were also donated to the Top 3 organization's Coats for Kids drive. Tyler Eads led the men's division in the 5K run with a time of 17:44. AEDC Vice Commander Col. Eugene Mittuch placed second with a time of 19:49 and Maj. James Kennedy with the Staff Judge Advocate Office placed third at 21:21. The women's division was led by Maureen Burke who completed the 5K course in 24:50; Valerie Bjorn placed second with a time of 26:20 and Kim Meade placed third at 26:21.