Phillylacrosse.com, Posted 9/11/16
Runners and walkers from all over the United States and beyond participated today in the annual 9/11 Heroes Run. sponsored by the Travis Manion Foundation.
At today’s Fallen Heroes 9/11 race in Norristown, Neumann players (from left in blue) Cory Azeff (freshman), Rian King (freshman), and Joe Montgomery (junior) hold flags to honor those lost in 9/11 and those who have given their lives to their country
At least 300 races and more than 50,000 participants are supporting the cause of the Foundation, named after former La Salle College High lacrosse standout Marine 1st Lt. Travis Manion, who died serving his country in Iraq in 2007.
Many of the races were held in the Philly region; at one in Norristown members of the Neumann University men’s lacrosse team carried flags while running. Those who were unable to attend a race can still sign up as a “Virtual Runner” by clicking here.
The 9/11 heroes run unites communities internationally with the goal to never forget the sacrifices of the heroes of September 11th and the wars since: veteran, first responder, civilian, and military. join us to raise awareness and honor the fallen.
The 9/11 Heroes Run 5k +1M fun run/walk welcomes runners and walkers of all levels and of all ages. Events take place all over the world, on or near September 11th, and are organized by local volunteers who have asked themselves “If Not Me, Then Who…” and are serving in their communities. The 9/11 Heroes Run is the perfect opportunity for your community to come together and thank your local veterans, first responders, and their families each year at fun and family friendly event!
The message from Ryan Manion Borek, President, Travis Manion Foundation:
“Today, we commemorate the 15th Anniversary of September 11th, 2001. We join 30,000 other Americans, in 54 communities across the country and around world, who are coming together at a Travis Manion Foundation 9/11 Heroes Run to reflect on the lives lost that day. We will come together to honor our first responders, military service members, and volunteers who asked themselves “If Not Me, Then Who…” and stepped forward in our nation’s greatest time of need.
The tragic events of September 11th tore through our families and communities, but it did not break our spirit. It only fortified our national bonds and strengthened our resolve. We recognize strength of character is what defines us as a nation, and shows the resiliency of the American spirit. Let us ensure strength of character remains strong in our children and all future generations.
The symbol of the Travis Manion Foundation is the Spartan shield. It represents the strong character and bonds of community upon which our nation is built. It represents the perseverance, toughness, and pride of those who run into the fray, and not away from it. When challenges arise, we meet them. When tragedy strikes, we fortify one another. Each of you embodies the Spartan ethos. Take it with you every day, and inspire it in others.
God bless all those who protect our communities here at home, as well as those around the world, and God Bless America!”
“If Not Me, Then Who…”