Marine Runs 100 Miles in Support of Memorial, Wounded Service Members

At the time of its completion, One World Trade Center, or what is commonly known as the Freedom Tower, will soon scrape the New York City skyline at 1,776 feet. The height of the tower symbolically represents the year that Continental Congressformally adopted the Declaration of Independence, charting a path of freedom for this great nation.

For centuries, we’ve enjoyed the fruits of liberty, which was due in large part to brave men and women who proudly serve in our military forces.  Freedom is not, nor shall ever, be free.  Protecting it bears a price.  The price paid is not in currency, but in sacrifice.  Sacrifice from the few, selfless warriors whose actions speak volumes – their dedication without reserve.  They are the sons and daughters of our nation who risk their lives to protect ours and the freedoms we enjoy.

They come home wounded, forever changed.  As these wounded warriors return home, many face difficult times.  Their fight continues long after their time in service.

What do you do for those service members who provided the blanket of freedom that protects us and has been physically or mentally injured?  How do you ensure their sacrifices do not fade from our memory?

I asked myself the same questions and created an event to help spread awareness to the actions of our heroes.

On May 26, this Memorial Day weekend, I will execute a one-man, 100-mile run under 30 hours, circling around the World Trade Center to support wounded warriors and their families and to honor the sacrifices of our heroes who have shown the courage, commitment and dedication that has been the hallmark and strength of our nation. Learn more at www.hundredmilemarine.org.

As former Pres. Ronald Reagan once said, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.”

Please help me support those who have fought for and protected our freedom. Together, we can show these great warriors the enduring respect they deserve.

By Brian Gallagher

Gallagher, of Fairfield, N.J., is a former Marine born and raised in New York City.