SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — For one day each year, participants in the Wings Over Miramar Flightline 5K get the rare opportunity to run on the same flight line that fighter jets and helicopters use daily at MCAS Miramar.
This year, among the runners were Caryn and Steven Langen, a couple running to keep their son’s memory alive.
“Our goal when we started the non-profit was to run our aggression and our grief away," said Steven Langen.
Caryn and Steven Langen are running for their son, Sergeant Alec Langen, who died in a helicopter crash in the San Diego mountains in February alongside four other Marines.
They call the five killed in the crash their heroes.
“He was a really good person," said Caryn.
The last time the Langens were on base was shortly after the deadly crash for their son’s memorial.
“It was really hard coming to the base this morning - being here and seeing this. But being here with the sun out is kinda Alec’s way of saying, ‘It’s okay. I’m glad you’re here,’” said Steven.
Alec was following in his dad’s footsteps by working with helicopters.
The Wings Over Miramar Flightline 5K is their first run in his honor.
“Running helps you heal. We didn’t realize it. Exercise gives you that pounding out-the-ground feeling when you're on the tarmac," said Caryn.
While it’s emotional for the family to be on base for the first time since the memorial for the five Marines, they are finding humor in the situation.
“He would laugh hysterically. We’re not runners," said Caryn.
“Our son was not the most physically coordinated child. He was 6 foot 5 inches, so he looked like a baby giraffe when he ran. He wasn’t a coordinated runner. So we definitely think he would be here just cheering us on," recalled Steven.
