American Legoin to host Walk for Veterans
By John Joyce
Published in News on March 8, 2016 1:46 PM
American Legion Post 215 will host a one-mile Walk for Veterans on April 2 through historic downtown Goldsboro. Registration is open now.
The event will begin at 11 a.m. at the corner of Center and Spruce streets near Goldsboro Fire Department Station 1, and will raise money for the National Emergency Fund.
"We do not thank our veterans enough for what they've done," former Post 215 president James Moore said.
Approximately 10 to 15 people have already signed up, paying a $10 entry fee in exchange both for admission as well as a Walk for Veterans T-shirt, available in sizes small through 4X.
The money raised will support an American Legion disaster relief fund -- the NEF -- which helps veterans and their families impacted by natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.
The American Legion, at the national level, hosts walks in cities across the country and throughout Europe -- the group was started by veterans in Paris in 1919 at the end of World War I -- to raise awareness for veteran's causes.
"This whole thing builds around what the vets have done over the years to keep us free," Moore said. ""When we can walk out of our doors and we don't have to look around for bombs or other threats, it's thanks to the veterans."
Veterans returning today from Iraq and Afghanistan are facing a myriad of issues, including traumatic brain injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder and countless other medical and service-connected issues, he said.
American Legion Department of N.C. Commander Donald E. Bridges said in a prepared statement that the walks are intended to raise awareness about such crucial issues facing veterans and their families.
"An estimated 22 veterans a day commit suicide," Bridges said. "We owe it to those who served our country to never forget their sacrifice and devotion. We are walking for those who marched for us."
For more information about the Walk for Veterans, about American Legion Post 215, or to register, contact James Moore at 919-242-6056, or call 252-521-0491. Direct emails to jmoorejr7@nc.rr.com