For the third consecutive year, the Captain Meriwether Lewis Chapter of the Association of the United States Army and its local subchapters are poking fun at the likelihood of a Zombie Apocalypse - an event some in the U.S. fear will happen, and are making preparations to survive.

The AUSA 5K Zombie Apocalypse Run will attract upwards of 150 people eager to run for their lives, June 4. The 5K is a membership drive for the Captain Meriwether Lewis chapter.

"All the proceeds are given back to the soldiers," said Kelly Colter, chair of this year's run. "We don't make anything off this. Anyone who registers for the run is given their membership and they become active and involved with AUSA."

Amy Tiemeyer, the president of the chapter, came up with the concept for the 5K run when she heard about it at an AUSA leadership conference three years ago.

"I brought it back, and everyone thought that it was a really good idea," Tiemeyer said. "Stacy Miller chaired the event the first year and we had one hundred runners. I chaired the event last year, and there were one hundred thirty runners. I handed it over to Kelly this year. It's a huge undertaking, but it's also a wonderful experience.

"It builds membership and camaraderie for AUSA," Tiemeyer, who works for Veterans National Lending Group added. "It's a great opportunity for us to engage the younger demographics, active-duty and community members who would like to be involved in the AUSA."

Colter said the 3.2-mile run will go around Fort Steilacoom Park.

"This is beautiful scenery, which gives our zombies a good place to hide," Colter said.

The U.S. Army Ranger Battalion will act as zombies.

"A make-up artist will be coming in to do their makeup," Colter said. "It's fun for them to be part of this."

Participants start with three lives. Each life is represented by a yellow flag attached to their side.

"It's like flag football, so if a zombie gets a hold of your flag, then that's one life down," Colter explained.

Tiemeyer said participants like to bring their families and friends to sacrifice them for the win.

"Because only one of you has to win," Tiemeyer said.

A trophy ceremony for survivors will occur following the run. Those who survive will also be entered into a raffle drawing for survival gear like a four-man tent, backpacks, and other accessories and preparedness essentials. Those who die and become zombies will be entered into a drawing for breath mints, laundry detergent, and scented freshener sprays.

"A lot of people believe the Zombie Apocalypse is coming," Colter said. "This is one of those fun things that make for a good run."

Registration is due on June 3, in order to receive a T-shirt. Registration for E1-E4 is $15. For E5 and above and civilians is $35. Those under 18 are $10. Individuals must be 7 years and up to participate.

AUSA Zombie Apocalypse 5K Run, June 4, 10:30 a.m., Fort Steilacoom Park, Lakewood, register at active.com.