ROTC puts on a successful run

The ROTC Hero Run begins outside of Blue Springs South on November 11th. The run raised money for Honor Fights KC. Photo courtesy of Col. Stan Cole

Matthew Willis, News Editor

The ROTC Hero Run occurred last Saturday, which is held to benefit the local nonprofit Honor Flights KC.

There was a much-appreciated large turnout this year.

“It was great to see a lot of clubs come in,” Senior Carlos Velasquez said, adding that players from South’s baseball team were especially prolific, and even several alumni showed up. In all, over 250 people participated. “It was just a fun time,” Velasquez said.

The Mile Fun Run was the most popular event, and was non-competitive. In the 5K run, the top runners were Junior Nate Henks in first, Velasquez in second, and Senior Drew Self in third. All participants got a shirt and dog tags.

All proceeds from the race went to Honor Flights KC, a nonprofit organization that helps elderly or disabled veterans visit Washington, D.C. to see the memorials and monuments made for those who served. About $4,100 was raised in total by the event.

With free transportation, thousands of veterans are able to go without being hindered by the modern financial woes of modern retirees. Accommodations are made for the frequently ailed people, as about half of all veterans served in Honor Flights KC are wheelchair dependent.

A priority is given to veterans of World War II; a generation that is now quickly vanishing. Nearly all veterans from that war are over 90 years of age.

“It’s important to honor what they’ve done and giving them that opportunity is essential,” Velasquez said. “It’s a phenomenal program. In D.C. at Arlington, I saw a group of old veterans visit. It’s really breathtaking.”

Col. Stan Cole was grateful for the record attendance.

“Thank-you to the Blue Springs community for your support, and to the baseball team for getting a lot of people out,” Cole said.