U.S. Army veteran and 1968 Olympic gold medalist Mel Pender didn’t start running track until he was 25-years-old and stationed with the 82nd Airborne Division in Okinawa. From there, he qualified for the 1964 Olympics and returned to the usarmy following. In 1968, he was part of the world record-setting men’s 4x100m relay team (38.24) and brought home 🥇. • Pender went on to become the first African-American track & field coach at goarmywestpoint. He served in the Army for 21 years until he retired with the rank of Captain in 1976 and was awarded a Bronze Star🎖. The 81-year-old continues to inspire youth today, especially at RunJumpThrow events, and we are forever grateful for his service. • To all military members, USATF thanks you for your tireless dedication and countless sacrifices to protect our country. 🇺🇸 • #veteransday #usatf #teamusatf #celebrate68