Runners visiting from California to Virginia for local 5K/10K.

Civilian participants will be privileged and proud to run along side military servicemen and women – an opportunity that is rare and exciting!

"Support Our Troops" is a popular slogan. For some people, sadly, this is where their "support" both begins and ends. For other people, of course, "Support Our Troops" is highly personal. It may mean: "Support my husband or wife, my father or mother, my sister or brother, or my child" who are often deployed far away from their homes and families and are put in harms way to defend our Country, our values and our freedom.

Such sacrifices should not to be taken lightly indeed, they are to be commended and supported. The “Essence Of Freedom Run” is an annual event to raise funds that are needed by the brave men and women, both active duty and Veterans, who defend our country by serving in the armed forces.

The tribute signs along the course of men and women who have either given their life for our country or are out there right now keeping us safe had several runners come in with tears.

This race came about when Marilee Papale Shipman wanted to combine her two loves, running and the Military. Marilee has run dozens of Marathons, Triathlons, and even an Ironman 70.3 Championship. Also, Marilee is surrounded by family and friends in the Military. A running event that benefits our Armed Forces was the perfect solution.

In addition, our Village of Deerfield's Memorial Day Parade, which is immediately following our run, had practically no spectators to honor, show support, or say 'Thank You' to those involved. Marilee and Race Director Peggy Pattis felt this event would renew the Patriotic Spirit of everyone involved. That there was a need to reinforce the education to our youth about why and because of whom we have the freedoms that set America apart from the rest. This event has accomplished those goals and then some!

The 2016 Essence of Freedom Run 5k/10k. The Essence Of Freedom Run is the featured event of Support Our Soldiers Freedom, Inc. a 501(c) 3 organization, benefiting Lake County and other Illinois Veteran Assistance Organizations. Register today at Essence of Freedom Run website.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS:

· Local Shepard Middle School helps make tribute signs that line the racecourse. These signs have many runners come in with tears!

· Local School Holy Cross has students who will be singing our National Anthem.

· Most Venders and Entertainment are Active Duty or Veterans themselves.

· Rolling Thunder Riders leadoff the run.

· Local Deerfield High School students running the event

· U.S. Congressman Robert Dold (IL-10) will open the event.