Staff Report
In 2012, over 3,000 participants and spectators attended a free memorial event honoring military men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
With the addition of the Candlelight Vigil Ceremony the evening prior to the run, many more were able to join this incredible opportunity to show our Gold Star Families that we will never forget.
Hosted by T.A.M.P.A., this year, everyone has an opportunity once again to be included in this event, which is dedicated to educating our communities about the sacrifices being made every day.
This year’s one mile fun run/walk, 5K and 10K race weekend will take place at Veteran’s Memorial Park, located at3602 Hwy. 301, in Tampa. It will begin on Saturday, September 7 with packet pickup between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Burgers and hot dogs will be available for $5. At 7:45 p.m. there will be a motorcycle procession and the 8 p.m. candlelight ceremony will follow.
Late registration for the walk/runs will take place on Sunday, September 8 from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Races will begin immediately following the 9 a.m. opening ceremony.
Walk or run, volunteer, wave flags, cheer on the runners, buy a shirt, attend the candlelight ceremony, eat at the cookout, make a donation or just come to view the humbling Florida Fallen Memorial.
Register online at www.active.com/10k-race/tampa-fl/6th-annual-run-for-the-fallen—tampa-2013. Registration closing date online is Friday, September 6 at11:59 p.m.
If you are interested in volunteering, visit www.signupgenius.com/go/9040B44A5AA28A31-2013.
From Sunday-Sunday, September 1-8, the Florida Fallen Memorial will be on display at the park.
T.A.M.P.A. was founded in April of 2004 as a Support group for families located Florida who have a family member serving in the United States Marine Corps. Over the past eight years they have expanded to include members worldwide and all branches of the service.
Members include active duty, reserves, retired, veterans, wounded warriors, those in Boot Camp, Poolees in the Delayed Entry Program, family members, friend and supporters. They also welcome with honor any Gold and Silver Star families. For more information, visit www.usmcfamilysupport.org.
