In the February 2009 issue of Runner’s World, there is an article about waving–yes, the universal sign for “Hello” when you pass somebody else. Being in Runner’s World, the article obviously is about waving while running.
I have to admit–I am a waver, while I run. As a matter of fact, I probably wave more, when given the opportunity, while running than any other time. Of course, being a Chaplain I see a lot more people that I know when I run–but I also am happy to see other people running.
The article refers to the non-wavers. The Army is typically a warm community when it comes to meeting new people–so, I think this is translated into the fact that there are more wavers in the military. I believe it stems from the culture–it is proper to give the “greeting of the day” and/or salute when you see another Soldier. There is typically some communication between you and everybody you meet while simply walking around. It makes sense that this would be the case. Occasionally, I do run across the non-waver. Most of the time they are focused on their run and look like the are ignoring everything around them, and that’s OK. But, it is always nice to see a smile as you pass–especially on these Baumholder hills.
However, what happens when you are running a loop? Last month, while I was at FOB Falcon, there were several runners that I would see in the morning. One runner in particular would pass me about the same time every morning I ran. I would see this runner four times as we would meet going the opposite directions on a similar running distance. At first, it was a smile and wave. Then, a good job. Sometimes a simple “Hooah”. He was encouraging to me because meeting him would break the train of thought for a moment and we were on that similar journey of getting through our morning. It was nice to have someone who understood.
My favorite is to see one of my Battalion Companies or Platoon pass because many times I will hear a lot of rowdy chatter, and it always makes me want to turn around and join in the fun.