2020 Annapolis 9/11 Heroes Run Planned For Sept. 20

ANNAPOLIS, MD — The 2020 Annapolis 9/11 Heroes Run will be Sept. 20 at 2 p.m. at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. This year's event will commemorate the 10th anniversary of Naval Academy graduate Lt. (SEAL) Brendan Looney's KIA date and pay tribute to front line workers who have been protecting communities from the spread of the coronavirus.

Hosted by Travis Manion Foundation (TMF), the Annapolis 9/11 Heroes Run includes a 5K and 1M Family Fun Run along with a 5K GORUCK division that unites the community in remembering the sacrifices of the heroes of the Sept. 11th attacks and in the wars since. Proceeds support TMF programs that empower veterans and families of the fallen to develop character in future generations and create thriving communities.

“This year marks the 10th anniversary of when Brendan was killed in action while conducting combat operations in Afghanistan,” said race director Natanya Levioff. “He was a local Maryland boy having graduated from DeMatha Catholic High School before attending the Naval Academy along with two of his younger brothers. There is no better way to honor his memory than by gathering here in Annapolis to show appreciation not just for Brendan’s commitment to this nation, but for all the men and women who choose to serve our communities and our country.”

On Sept. 21, 2010, just 10 days prior to his expected return to the United States, Lt. Brendan Looney’s SEALs team helicopter went down in the mountains of Afghanistan on his 59th mission. Brendan, a 2004 Naval Academy graduate, was one of nine U.S. troops killed in the Black Hawk helicopter crash. The Navy Men’s Lacrosse Team participates in the Annapolis 9/11 Heroes Run each year in honor of the former starting player.

Brendan, who was Travis Manion’s Naval Academy roommate and best friend, is now buried by his side at Arlington National Cemetery. Travis’ father, Ret. Col. Tom Manion, USMC, wrote the book, "Brothers Forever," about their extraordinary friendship.

Levioff noted that the well-being of the participants, partners and volunteers is the top priority guiding all decisions. The run committee currently is in the process of preparing safety protocols and contingency plans.

“At this time, we plan to hold the 12th Annual Annapolis 9/11 Heroes Run. We want to assure the community that we are carefully monitoring the situation with COVID-19 along with the state of Maryland and the city of Annapolis’ mandated orders,” said Levioff. “If large gatherings are not allowed by the date of the run (Recovery Stage 3), we will first try to push back the date to sometime in the October/November timeframe. If it is not possible to hold an in-person event, we will switch to a virtual run that still brings our community together to honor and remember; and ensure that each registered participant receives their race items whether it be by a packet pick up option or in the mail.”