AFOSI Det. 631 'polar bears' take plunge, support Special Olympics

  • Published
  • AFOSI, Det. 631
ANCHORAGE, Alaska --  Air Force Office of Special Investigations,  Detachment 631, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, participated in the annual "Freezin' for a Reason Polar Plunge" for Special Olympics in Anchorage, Dec. 19, 2009.

Hordes of onlookers and well-wishers turned out to watch the swimmers brave the icy waters at Goose Lake as the sheganingans unfolded. 

The event drew about 300 jumpers, 1,500 pledgers and approximately 700 watchers, according to event organizers.

Jim Balamaci, president and chief executive of Special Olympics Alaska, said officials expected that nearly $100,000 would be raised for the charity.

"It's all about having fun and really the most important thing is raising awareness for people with intellectual disabilities," he said. "All of the money raised will go to our statewide athletes to help them in training and competition."

"It was all worth it," said Special Agent in Charge Pearl Mundt. "Detachment 631 raised $3,422, as well as taking home the honor of being the team that raised the most money in Anchorage for the Special Olympics. The top fundraisers were Special Agent Keith King who raised $850 and Special Agent Travis Williamson who raised $790 and spearheaded this event for the detachment."

The team consisted of Special Agents Pearl Mundt, Shaun Cassidy, John Wisocky, Keith King, Nick Murphy, Travis Williamson, Mike Charland, Mr. Matthew Charland (SA Charland's son), Staff Sgt . Porscha Pellom and 3rd Security Forces Squadron Investigator Sarah Day.