Marshfield (OnFocus) – Every day, 22 veterans take their own lives. Next month, the public is being invited to participate in Engage22, a Suicide Awareness virtual Walk/Run to bring awareness to the issue.
Hosted by Wisconsin American Legion, the event consists of a 2.2 mile walk, 5K or 10K. Register here.
“The purpose of the Engage 22 Run/Walk is to raise public awareness about the crucial issues facing America’s veterans and their families,” said Department Commander Wischer. “An estimated 22 veterans a day commit suicide. Traumatic brain injuries have become a signature wound of the Global War on Terrorism and up to 20 percent of the men and women who served in Iraq or Afghanistan are believed to experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Veterans still have difficulty receiving health care in a timely manner and many have been waiting years to have their disability claims resolved. We owe it to those who served our country to never forget their sacrifice and devotion. We are walking for those who marched for us.”
The Engage 22 Virtual Run/Walk can be completed at any time and results can be submitted on July 17, 2020. The event promotes a 2.2 mile walk, run, or bike; a 22 mile run, bike or Ruck; or chose any distance in between. The purpose is to show support and raise awareness no matter the distance.
The registration fee is $15 and will include a t-shirt and race bib . This is a great opportunity to get out and get active with family and friends as well. Also participating in the walk will be Wisconsin Department of Veteran Affairs Secretary Kolar, Wisconsin American Legion Department Adjutant Nathan Gear and Interim Adjutant Paul Fisk, and Wisconsin American Legion Foundation President and Past Department Commander Jim Reigel.
For more information about the Engage 22 Run/Walk or to register, please visit: wilegion.org or call 608-745-1090.
The Wisconsin American Legion is the state’s largest veterans’ service organization with over 53,000 members and 506 posts in communities across Wisconsin serving troops, veterans and youth since 1919. For more information on the Legion’s programs and membership, please visit www.wilegion.org.
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Author: News Desk
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