Glen Cove Officers Take on 22-Mile Challenge to Support PTSD Awareness

Derek and Owen Valance, two Glen Cove Police Officers, are gearing up to kayak 22 miles across the Long Island Sound on August 30th, 2024, as part of the 22 PTSD Awareness Challenge. The event will begin in Bridgeport at 9:00 a.m., with participants kayaking across the Sound and finishing at the Port Jefferson Village Center, located at 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson. The 22-mile venture symbolizes the 22 veterans who die by suicide each day, according to 22 PTSD Awareness Challange, and aims to highlight the urgent need for PTSD awareness and support for veterans. The Tribute and Honor Foundation will benefit from the funds raised by the two brothers' participation.

The 22 PTSD Awareness Challenge was started in 2016 by Frank Lombardi, fellow veteran Chris Levi, and Alex Rohman. The three co-founders were the only ones to complete the challenge that year. Since then, the number of veterans participating in the challenge has increased year after year.

Derek Valance, a former Navy SEAL and current deputized U.S. Marshal, brings extensive military experience to this event. Derek served with SEAL Team 10 and has earned multiple certifications, including Military Freefall Jumpmaster and Helicopter Rope Suspension Technique Master. He is now pursuing a master's degree in Psychology to help veterans and first responders. Derek's commitment to supporting the veteran community has been recognized by the Tribute and Honor Foundation, which honored him at their 2024 Gala.

Owen Valance, a former Naval Aircrewman Operator, has accumulated over 1,400 flight hours and played a critical role in various operations, including the seizure of billions in illicit narcotics. Owen, who joined the Glen Cove Police Department in November 2022, was awarded the Life Saving Award in June 2023. His dedication to service extends beyond his military career as he now actively supports his hometown through his role in law enforcement.

Both Derek and Owen now serve their hometown as Glen Cove Police Officers, and their efforts in this challenge exemplify their ongoing commitment to the community and their fellow veterans.

Glen Cove Police Chief William Whitton expressed his pride in the Valance brothers' commitment to PTSD awareness. "As former military and current law enforcement officers, Derek and Owen fully understand the importance of PTSD awareness. I am incredibly proud that both these officers would accept this difficult physical challenge to help increase the focus on this important topic," said Chief Whitton.

"When we were first asked about participating in this 22-mile challenge, our only question was, 'So what time do we need to be there?'" said Derek Valance. "Any opportunity to raise awareness and support veterans and those suffering from PTSD is a cause we wholeheartedly stand behind."

"PTSD is a serious issue that is in need of more attention, and it is organizations like these that are working daily to help spread the word that people need to hear," added Owen Valance. "We’re looking forward to the kayak challenge and hope to find even more ways in the future to contribute to this unfortunate issue."

The Tribute and Honor Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has been named the beneficiary of the Derek/Owen team. In addition to raising awareness about PTSD and the alarming rate of suicide among veterans, donations made in honor of the brothers’ dedication will support the foundation's work in the veteran community.

The Tribute and Honor Foundation has a deep connection to the 22 PTSD Awareness Challenge. The organization supports initiatives like Operation VEST, which aims to reduce veteran suicide and combat mental health stigma. Additionally, the foundation presents the Awareness and Remembrance Award annually to an individual who works tirelessly to raise awareness about veteran suicides. Many on the North Shore are also familiar with the foundation's Tribute and Honor Awards, presented annually on the first Saturday in February, which honor veterans and veteran supporters from across Long Island. The foundation also presents the Ben Farnan Scholarships to graduating high school seniors pursuing careers in the Armed Forces, supports the VetNOW program at the Glen Cove Library, and backs many other initiatives on Long Island.

To cheer on the kayakers as they arrive, be at the Port Jefferson Village Center, located at 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson, by 5 p.m. A reception will follow. Organizers encourage attendees to arrive early for the Resource Fair, which begins at 2 p.m. and is also held at the center.

“We are so very grateful to Derek and Owen Valance for naming the Tribute and Honor Foundation as the beneficiary of their challenge,” said Gaitley Stevenson-Mathews, President of the foundation. “Their dedication is truly incredible, and the support from donations made in tribute to them will make a big difference in our work as a foundation. Thanks must also go out to Chief Whitton, who was a big help in pulling this event together. He is always there to support his officers, our community, and our veterans.”
Event Details

• 9 AM: Challenge Begins in Bridgeport, CT
• 2 PM: Resource Fair Opens at Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 East Broadway, Port Jefferson, NY
• 5 PM: Kayakers Arrive at Port Jefferson Village Center (Reception to follow)
• 4 PM - 8 PM: Free Reception Party with Live Music, Food, and Fun!

For more information on the Tribute and Honor Foundation including opportunities to donate in tribute to Derke and Owen Valance, visit www.tributeandhonorfoundation.org. To learn more about the 22 PTSD Awareness Challenge, visit www.22pac.org.