HUNTER ARMY AIRFIELD, Ga., —— More than 2,000 people faced rainy weather to participate in the Patriot Day Run, Sept. 7, in Savannah, Georgia.
The run honors those lost in the events of Sept. 11, 2001, and in the Global War on Terror that followed. Participants began at Forsyth Park and weaved through the streets of downtown Savannah, passing major tourist locations. Participants included first responders, service members, civilians and family members. Some participants came from out of state, and many wore mementos of individuals they were remembering through their participation in the run.
“Today is a day to remember,” said Lt. Col. Derick Taylor, Hunter Army Airfield garrison commander. “Today as we lace up our shoes, we remember the ones who laced up their boots on Sept. 11, 2001, when the call came. Today, as we begin our run, we remember those who ran into the fire, that ran into the rubble. Today, as we push through the desire to quit, we remember those who fought to the end.”
The Patriot Day Run was coordinated between the Fort Stewart/Hunter Army Airfield Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation in partnership with the city of Savannah.
“Savannah is a proud, military city,” said Savannah Mayor Van R. Johnson II. “We are thrilled to partner with our community members at Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield for the second annual Patriot Day Run in downtown Savannah. We will never forget the heroic efforts of first responders on 9/11 and of our brave armed forces after that tragic event. The Patriot Day Run will honor everyone who has served our country bravely and especially those who did so in one of our darkest moments.”
The U.S. Army Golden Knights were scheduled to kick off the event by parachuting into the park but were unable due to weather. However, the weather did not prevent runners from coming out. The event saw less than 1,000 people register last year, but 1,500 people showed the day of the event to participate in the race. This year, 1,300 individuals registered with 2,300 total participating.
The evening before the 5K memorial run, a block-party style “Night of Honor” event took place at Daffin Park. That event featured the 3rd Infantry Division band, food trucks, vendors, and military and first responder equipment displays. The free event was designed to allow the community to meet members of the military, police department, and first responders before the next day’s race.
“Combined, the Night of Honor and the Patriot Day Run honor all those lost during the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, and the service of our armed forces during the resulting Global War on Terror,” said Taylor.
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