At 8 a.m. sharp on Oct. 11, 2013, two teams of four Marines, bolted from the Marine Security Guard Headquarters, aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, starting the fifth-annual “Amazing Race”.

Similar to the popular TV show, the Amazing Race was a timed event that led Marines to 17 locations around base, where the participants had to accomplish various challenges to receive clues to their next destination. The race, an annual professional military education event, was designed to familiarize sergeants and below with various resources aboard base.

“It’s the favorite PME of the year,” said Amy Watson, family readiness officer, Embassy Security Group. “It’s easier to learn when you’re having fun.”

Watson, the designer of the event, believes that Marines enjoyed the event  for several reasons and participate whole-heartedly.

“Marines learn more when they compete with each other,” said Watson. “It’s a great PME, and they retain what they see.”

Some of the places the Marines visit during the race include the Exceptional Family Member Program, the Volunteer Education Center, the Single Marine Program and the Auto Hobby Shop.

“It’s really fun,” said Pfc. Cecily Wetzel, administrative clerk. “This is my first time. Only Marines would run around on a rainy Friday.”

One of the most memorable stops for many Marines is the New Parent Support Program where participants wear an empathy belly that simulates the weight and pressure a woman experiences while pregnant and, with a doll, undertake an obstacle course including feeding, bathing and changing a baby.

“It’s actually pretty fun,” said Lance Cpl. Shawn Burkmier, Marine Security Guard student. “I would definitely recommend it to others.”

Kathy Olson, new parent support program manager, also acknowledges the benefit of the event.

“It was a good eye-opening event for them,” said Olson. “It was great to see the looks on their faces as they were surprised at some of the things [included in the event]. We want to do anything we can to help them learn about services.”

According to Watson, the purpose of the event goes much deeper than the knowledge of resources and  locations though.

“We have better noncommissioned officers [after the event],” said Watson. “For Marines who’ve been here, they’ve learned something new. For new Marines, it’s an education [about almost everything].

Correspondent: samuel.l.ellis@usmc.mil