White Oak Hero Run/Walk 5K honoring the life of Sean Sluganski
WHITE OAK (KDKA) - The borough of White Oak was giving back to their McKeesport neighbors on Saturday by hosting a Hero's Run and Walk.
And though it was wet this morning, the weather didn't dampen spirits.
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Not even the rain today could people away in White Oak from coming out and supporting a good cause.
Almost 200 people came out Saturday morning to Heritage Hill Park in White Oak to run, walk, and to say thank you to McKeesport police officers Charles Thomas and Sean Sluganski.
In February, Officer Thomas was wounded, and tragically, Officer Sluganski was killed in the line of duty while responding to a call.
McKeesport and White Oak share a lot in common as neighboring communities, and Mayor Ina Marton of White Oak says that today's event helps to bring these neighbors together.
"It brings people together. It brings a camaraderie, which we love. White Oak is small, only 9,000 people, but this is bringing everybody together and it's a happy time," Marton said.
All proceeds from the event go to Officer Thomas and Officer Sluganski's families, and Officer Thomas, who was at today's event, said that he is grateful.
"It means a lot. The support that we have gotten over the last few months has been great. It has been helping with the healing process, helping us to grieve and work through this matter."
This event is also part of White Oak Borough's 75th-anniversary celebration, and borough officials say that they are planning to do this event each year, and each year they will be honoring different local heroes.
If you couldn't make it out and you would like to donate, White Oak borough says you still can by visiting this link.
