Winter Special Olympics

***image1***Athletes participate in games at Vogelweh

More than 160 athletes from 14 American schools and four German schools participated in the 11th Annual Winter Special Olympics on Dec. 7 at the Vogelweh Bowling Center and the Vogelweh Community Center.

The Olympics featured a full day of athletics and arts and crafts initiated by the opening ceremonies at 9 a.m. The JROTC Color Guard was on hand as John Graham sang both the German and American national anthems.

More than 350 military, civilian and German volunteers helped make the Olympics special for each of the participants.

The participants were divided into two groups, each taking turns at bowling and the arts and crafts provided at the community center. At 12:30 p.m., Santa Claus made a special appearance.

“From my perspective, it is a very meaningful and enjoyable event for the many special needs students who participate and along with the numerous volunteers, your staff members very much help make it so,” said Larry Zani, Special Olympics bowling event coordinator.

(Courtesy of 435th Services Squadron)