Smith’s widow accepts plaque at Heroes Run

     Sons Ayden and Spensir helped mom Shellie Smith accept a plaque Saturday dedicating Campbell University’s annual 5K Heroes Run to her late husband 1st Lt. Justin Smith, a Campbell graduated killed in action in Iraq.
     “I thank Campbell for remembering Justin,” said Smith. “They’ve taken the time to honor him, what he did, what he meant to Campbell and what Campbell meant to him.”
     According to Ken Frenette, head coach for the Cross Country program at Campbell, the Heroes Run seeks to honor those who have contributed to their community.
     “Every year we designate a profession or an individual who has given back to the community,” he said. This year it is the armed forces and Lt. Justin Smith, who was a Campbell ROTC graduate and member of the Campbell wrestling team.”
     The proceeds from the race, in which an entry fee of $5 for students and $15-$22 for adults was charged, are designated by the honoree or his or her family to an organization or cause that benefits the community. Mrs. Smith donated the proceeds from the 2006 race to Campbell University’s ROTC Cadet Program.
     “Justin had a blast in ROTC,” she said. “We made a lot of great friends here and the support they’ve given us after the fact has been wonderful.”
     Approximately 130 people competed in the 5K certified race which kicked off in front of the athletic offices at the McKay House on campus and followed the campus perimeter to finish at the Nesbit Tennis Courts.
     “The number of participants was a little bit down this year, but we definitely had more people from outside of Campbell to participate,” said Frenette. “I hope the numbers continue to grow as the run gains more recognition in the community.”
     Three contestants who participated in the run were members of the same family. Campbell graduate Kerry McKenzie (’85) and children Kayleigh and Karson.
     “This is the kids’ first time to run a race this long,” McKenzie said. “They’ve run some one-mile races, but this is their first 5K.”
     McKenzie, who was a member of the Campbell Cross Country and Track teams from 1981 until 1985, said he liked the idea of giving something back to the community.
     “I had a really good experience while I was at Campbell so I try to support Coach Frenette and the teams in any way I can,” he said. “I also try to keep the kids involved as well.”
     Campbell President Dr. Jerry Wallace was excited about the people who turned out for the Homecoming events. “We have graduates and family of graduates from all over this nation who have come back with loyalty and pride and deep thanksgiving,” he said. “It is a great satisfaction to see the smiling, happy faces of Campbell University alumni.”

Photo Copy: Shellie Smith, widow of 1st. Lt. Justin Smith, accepts a plaque in his honor at Campbell University’s Heroes Run, part of the 2006 Homecoming activities on Saturday, Oct. 21. (Photo by Haven Hottel).