Hundreds Mark Memorial Day With Navy SEAL 5K Run
BALTIMORE (WJZ)—Hundreds gather in Canton on Memorial Day for the 4th annual Navy SEAL 5K run.
It's a day many take seriously, especially for men like Thad Turner.
Turner, who spent 7 years as a Navy SEAL and sniper, is the guest of honor for this year's race.
"I think it's an overall kind of brotherhood. People who understand sacrifice and understand a cause bigger than themselves," said Turner.
These runners will raise $10,000 for the Navy SEAL Foundation which goes to help SEAL families in times of crisis.
The city police and fire unions also make this special event happen.
"This is really close to our member's hearts. We have a lot of veterans in our local so for us to come down here on Memorial Day was a no brainier," said Lt. Tom Nosek, Fire Local 964, 2nd V.P.
"I just think it's a wonderful opportunity to give back too the community to pay it forward and to interact with these wonderful people," said Baltimore Police Commissioner Kevin Davis.
Top finishers are awarded paddles, similar to what outgoing SEALs receive. Award or not, the runners say the real prize was being able to be a part of this community on this day.
In the four years they have run this race, over $40,000 has been raised for the Navy SEAL Foundation.