Stride with Pride: Join Palm Bay’s ‘Be The One’ 5K Walk for Veteran Suicide Awareness

Step Up for Veterans: How Your 5K Can Combat the Crisis

Taking the Lead for a Crucial Cause: The 12th District's Commitment to Veterans

Palm Bay is set to demonstrate its unwavering support for veterans with the upcoming "Be The One" Suicide Awareness 5K Health Walk. Spearheaded by the tireless efforts of the 12th District of the American Legion, this significant event showcases the dedication of individuals who have fervently advocated for our veterans' well-being. Karl Burtzloff, a committed Legionnaire and Chaplain of Post 394, alongside Gary Raymond, the 12th District Adjutant - Sons of the American Legion, have been the driving force behind this initiative, embodying the spirit of community and service.

The event, predominantly orchestrated by Post 394 with the collaboration of Post 117, represents months of diligent preparation and outreach. Since August, both Burtzloff and Raymond have been 'boots on the ground,' distributing flyers and engaging with the community to ensure the success of this vital cause. While Post 394 has taken the lead in the event's organization, Post 117 is set to provide valuable support through volunteers on the day of the walk.

Event Details: A Call to Action

Join us on January 27, 2024, at the central location of 396 Cogan Rd., Palm Bay, FL 32909, where the community will gather at 7:30 AM to commence registration. With a modest $20 entry fee, participants not only stand in solidarity for suicide prevention but also receive a symbolic T-shirt and wristband to wear as badges of their commitment.

The "Be The One" campaign, initiated by The American Legion, confronts the sobering reality of veteran suicide, with an estimated 17 to 44 veterans taking their lives each day. This campaign and the walk aim to change the narrative, urging every one of us to be active listeners, empathetic supporters, and advocates for mental health.

Fostering Community and Hope: Brunch and Bake Sale

The day is more than just a walk; it's an opportunity for camaraderie and community building. Post 394 is hosting a brunch for $5 a plate, as well as a bake sale where all proceeds will go directly to suicide prevention efforts. These gatherings are more than fundraising activities—they're a chance for participants to connect, share stories, and strengthen their resolve to support the mental health of our veterans.

A United Front: Acknowledging the Leaders Behind the Movement

It's essential to recognize the leadership and hard work of individuals like Karl Burtzloff and Gary Raymond. Their dedication since August has laid the groundwork for what promises to be a transformative event for the Palm Bay community and a beacon of hope for veterans nationwide.

The "Be The One" Suicide Awareness 5K Health Walk stands as a testament to the power of community-led initiatives in raising awareness and support for those who have served our country. It's a reminder that while each step taken during the walk is for those who have served, it's also a step towards a brighter future where no veteran feels alone in their struggles.

Join Us: Make Your Steps Count

We invite everyone in Palm Bay and surrounding areas to step forward and make a difference. Your participation in the "Be The One" 5K Health Walk is more than a physical activity; it's a step toward ending the tragedy of veteran suicide. Let's come together on January 27th to show our veterans that they are not alone, that their community is here for them, and that together, we can be the one to save a life.

For more details on the "Be The One" campaign, to learn more about how you can contribute to this critical cause, or to register for the event, please visit the official American Legion Post 394 website or contact the organizers directly.

Let’s lace up our shoes, share a meal, and be the one to make a difference.