Myles Kerr knew that being a Marine (水兵) comes with a lot of responsibility, but despite the huge weight he has on his shoulders, he has not forgotten the essence of being a public servant — that of being human.
Seven years ago, a photo of a Marine and a young boy running a marathon immediately went viral after it was shared on social media. But what seemed like a simple image packed a much deeper backstory. This story happened in 2013, but its relevance is still as powerful as ever.
The pair were running The Jeff Drench Memorial 5K in Charlevoix, Michigan when Myles Kerr came across Brandon Fuchs, a 9-year old boy struggling to keep up with the rest of his group. Brandon, exhausted and out of breath, asked the Marine: “Will you run with me?”
People who had their eyes on the prize would have refused, but the 19 -year -old was different. Being a Marine, he knew exactly what he should do. Kerr put aside his goal of beating his mates and instead slowed down to accompany the struggling boy to the finish line.
Because he chose to help the boy, the Marine ended up with the slowest time in his age group, according to the 5K results online.
Though he might have lost the race, the Marine won over people’s hearts. His act of kindness was celebrated on social media.
Kerr didn’t expect that his simple gesture would attract so much attention. He responded to a tweet praising his actions saying, “I was just doing what any man would do, but thank you! ” He also tweeted that he received gifts from the Fuchs family for helping out Brandon.
To Kerr, being a Marine was more than just being trained for combat — it also required learning how to be kind and compassionate towards the citizens they serve.
4. What was Myles Kerr
seven years ago?
A.A marine. | B.A public servant. |
C.A marathon runner. | D.A Michigan citizen. |
5. What is Myles Kerr’s original goal to participate in the marathon?
A.To win over people’s hearts. | B.To accompany the boy. |
C.To get the best score in his age group. | D.To build up his body. |
6. Which of the following best describe Myles Kerr?
A.Kind and unselfish. | B.Enthusiastic and generous. |
C.Responsible and proud. | D.Stubborn and helpful. |
7. What does the story mainly convey?
A.Being a Marine bears a lot. |
B.Kindness matters more than prizes. |
C.Being a Marine means a public servant. |
D.Good actions spread quickly. |