The 8th Annual Sunset Run For The Warriors is Sunday (Aug. 20) in Shelton.
The event “strives to unify each community together in honoring and embracing the local service members and their families.” Click here for more information on the event, and click here for a traffic advisory from Shelton police.
Below is an e-mail Q&A with one of the race’s organizers, Rebecca Herron, and a participant, U.S. Army Veteran Josh Hubbard.
Rebecca Herron, Run For The Warriors race series manager
Valley Indy: How did this annual event first come about?
Herron: A local family, who has been supporting Hope For The Warriors for years brought this race to us to raise funds for our programs. For the past 7 races, the Reh family has been an intricate part of the success of this race.
Valley Indy: In the first seven years, how much have you seen it grow?
Herron:: Since the beginning we have seen new and old faces come out to run, volunteer or be a part of the evening with us. We have greatly enjoyed seeing these families grow up each year and watch the kids go from the kids race when they were very young to running the 5k or 10k as they grew.
Valley Indy: Any specific goals for this year’s event, or in coming years?
Herron:: The goal for Run For The Warrior races is to unite military and civilian community members, connecting and educating each on the importance of embracing their neighbors, and to establish a long-term understanding and respect for the needs of local military families.
Josh Hubbard
Participant Josh Hubbard, U.S. Army Veteran
Valley Indy: Tell readers a little bit about your background. What drew you to serve?
Hubbard:: I was born and raised here in CT and always knew I was going to serve. I was drawn to the Army from a young age and I never wavered. I joined in early 2001 and served until late 2007 with two combat deployments as a member of the 10th Mountain Division.
Valley Indy: Have you participated in the Sunset Run For the Warriors before? What attracted you to the event?
Hubbard:: This is my first time participating in this event. I was drawn to this because of my passion for helping my fellow veterans. I have participated in other Hope for the Warriors events, like Operation Camp Farnam and the Veterans Boxing Club of Stamford and have seen what Hope For The Warriors can do for vets. I enjoy being part of this team.
Valley Indy: Why is it important for people to support this event?
Hubbard:: Supporting our veterans is an important today as it has been in the past. From medical issues to homelessness, the obstacles facing returning vets need addressing. By supporting an event like the Run For The Warriors, people can contribute to a terrific organization, like Hope For The Warriors, working hard to provide these types of assistance to the veterans that need it most.
