Plans have been finalized for Bethel’s Joseph W. Tarrant, Jr. American Legion Memorial Post 100 to host its inaugural 5K War Memorial Tribute Run in honor of America's fallen war heroes.
“What makes this event so special is that no prizes will be awarded and there will be no water stations throughout the race until the finish line,” event coordinator Dan Gaita said.
The course, which recently received approval through the Bethel Police Commission, will begin with a ceremonial bugle playing of Taps followed by a firing squad start.
Runners will pass the Bethel V.F.W Hall on Main Street before a grueling “tribute” first mile hill climb up Hoyts Hill and Governors Lane where each runner will be given a grave site sized P.O.W./M.I.A. Flag.
Runners will continue the duration of the race with flag in hand, descending back down the hill, pass the Soldiers and Sailors Monument on South Street and pass the Bethel American Legion on Elizabeth St. before finishing on School Street across from the Veterans Monument adjacent to the Municipal flag pole.
Gaita, who also serves as the Veterans Service Officer at the Bethel American Legion Post 100, said, “This is an event to honor those that died defending our freedom. It’s not about who wins or about getting a prize. Those brave men and women died for all of us, they got no prize but we have our freedom because of them.”
The primary goal of this event is to build the American Legion Post 100 Scholarship Fund for veterans and their children while simultaneously paying tribute to our fallen war heroes.
The event also occurs the day before Bethel’s annual Memorial Day Parade.
The race is scheduled to begin at 8am, Saturday, May 19, at the Bethel Municipal Center.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the American Legion Scholarship Fund which aides veterans and children of veterans through individually awarded scholarships to offset the cost of higher education, books, supplies, and institutional fees.
Those interested in participating can register online by visiting: http://bethelamericanlegion.com/5k.htm The 5k will also be one of the least expensive in the area with registration only $15.
Businesses and individuals that may be unable to run but would still like to support this event can also do so by visiting the link above.
