Plans For Annapolis 9/11 Heroes Run Unveiled

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Lace up those running shoes and make plans to participate in the 2019 Annapolis 9/11 Heroes Run planned for 2 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 22, at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.

Hosted by the 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. 11 attacks and in the wars since, including veterans, first responders, military and civilian. Proceeds support TMF programs that empower veterans and families of the fallen to develop character in future generations and create thriving communities.

“The Annapolis 9/11 Heroes Run began as a short memorial run around the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium by a small group of family and friends to honor former USNA graduate, Marine 1st Lt. Travis Manion,” said race director Natanya Levioff in a statement. “Now in its 11th year, the Run has grown into an amazing community event where more than 2000 participants and volunteers come together to pay tribute, to honor and to remember.”

As a special addition to this year’s event, participants will also be able to view the Global War on Terror Memorial Flag, a special traveling memorial honoring fallen heroes and their Gold Star families. Designed out of the nearly 7,000 dog tags of those who lost their lives in the ongoing War on Terror, the moving tribute is funded through Veterans & Athletes United (VAU) and built by veteran/active duty volunteers and military families.

The memorial, which is 28-foot-wide by 6-foot-tall, symbolizes the shape of the American flag when draped on a fallen service members casket and features 50 gold stars honoring Gold Star families nationwide.

“Our goal is to raise awareness of the sacrifice paid by our nation’s heroes to keep this country free and flying under one flag,” said James Howard, VAU founder and president in a statement. “We are honored to be a part of this year’s Annapolis 9/11 Heroes Run to provide this wonderful military community with an opportunity to view the memorial and reflect on the service and sacrifice of all who have fallen.”