Training Center Yorktown Run to Remember

More than 250 runners and walkers gathered September 14 at Coast Guard Training Center Yorktown for a Run to Remember, a 3K/5K event honoring Coast Guard fallen heroes and commemorating the lives lost on September 11, 2001.

Before the race began, Capt. Scott Rae, commanding officer of Training Center Yorktown, addressed the assembled runners and encouraged them to reflect on their own service and on the sacrifices made by Coast Guard members who came before them.

The event also gave the Coast Guard Foundation an opportunity to share its mission with members of the Yorktown community, many who may have been learning about the organization for the first time.

“The Run to Remember is a meaningful way to honor the service and sacrifice of our fallen heroes while bringing people together in support of Coast Guard families,” said Ron LaBrec, the Foundation’s chief marketing and communications officer. “It was inspiring to see the Yorktown community come together to remember and honor Coast Guard service.”

Participants followed 3K and 5K courses through the base and Coast Guard Foundation staff and board members volunteered along the route and created a Memorial Mile recognizing Coast Guard members who died in operational, line-of-duty service to the nation. The run combined friendly competition with a strong sense of fellowship, as participants encouraged and supported one another along the way.

Representatives from the Coast Guard Marathon were on hand, and the USO sponsored and staffed a hydration station for participants. A DJ provided music helping create an atmosphere of energy and community. Coast Guard Foundation board treasurer Cherrie Felder and board vice-chairman Rear Adm. Tim Riker, USCGR (Ret.), also took part in the event.

Admiral Riker shared, “Regardless of whether one runs or walks in these affairs, it gives us a brief opportunity to consider the supreme sacrifice of others - some of whom we knew - and our responsibility to give meaning to what they gave up…To understand, one must first remember.”

The Run to Remember supports the Foundation’s tragedy assistance programs for Coast Guard families and units coping with the loss of an active-duty member, ensuring that the service and sacrifice of fallen shipmates are never forgotten.