The 11th Annual Freedom Run 5K/10K is less than a month away! Hosted by Georgia Southern University’s nationally acclaimed Army ROTC program, this year’s race carries a deeper significance.
While the Freedom Run 5K/10K typically serves as the primary fundraiser for the Eagle Battalion’s annual events, the Cadets opted to donate this year’s proceeds to the Master Sergeant Christopher Decker Memorial ROTC Scholarship.
Originally from Steubenville, Ohio, MSG Decker was stationed at Hunter Army Airfield with 1st Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment before being assigned to Georgia Southern’s Eagle Battalion as the Senior Military Science Instructor. During his career, MSG Decker deployed 11 times to combat and one additional deployment to Europe. He used his experiences with the Ranger Battalion to shape and mentor the next generation of Army Officers.
On March 7, 2024, MSG Decker was involved in a motorcycle accident in Effingham County and succumbed to his injuries March 13. His vast knowledge and love for life left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
The Eagle Battalion, which had over 530 runners sign up for last year’s race, hopes that this year’s Freedom Run will not only raise the needed $25,000 but also set an attendance record.
The race features divisions for 5K Run/Walk, 5 Ruck, and 10K Run. All ages and abilities are welcome for the 5K Run/Walk. For ages 13 and older who are looking for a bit of a challenge, the 5K Ruck requires that a weighted rucksack, backpack, or vest is worn. The minimum weight for females is 30lbs and 40lbs for males and must be maintained throughout the race. Participants of the 10K Run are asked to maintain at least a jogging pace.
Currently, more than 440 runners are signed up from 11 different states. The Decker family will be among those coming in from out of state. Note that while online registration will close a few days prior to race day, walk-up registration will be available the morning of the race.
The race will take place on April 19 at the Military Science (ROTC) Building located at 4526 Old Register Road and will lead participants through the beautiful Statesboro campus.
For more information on the 11th Annual Freedom Run 5K/10K, please visit https://runsignup.com/2025freedomrun.
The Eagle Battalion consists of Cadets from Georgia Southern University’s Statesboro and Armstrong campuses, East Georgia State College – Statesboro, and Savannah State University. They are a four-time winner of the prestigious MacArthur Award, presented annually to the top eight Army ROTC programs nationally. The program is also one of the nation’s largest producers of Army Nurses.
