Shortly before the race was set to start, the event was threatened by a tornado warning, high winds and a sudden torrential rain. It seemed as though the race would not be happening! As the the storm quickly passed and the clouds opened up to let the sun shine through, the dedicated, vigilant crowd reappeared, and the race would go on!
"America's fighting men and women sacrifice much to ensure that our great nation stays free. We owe a debt of gratitude to the soldiers that have paid the ultimate price for this cause ........" - Allen Boyd, former US Representative, Florida, 2nd Congressional District. And many in our community agree, as exhibited by the crowd of spectators and athletes that had weathered the storm to gather on Saturday afternoon at the Sapper Six Memorial Race. The 5k race and 3k fun run/walk was held in memory of, and to honor, 6 local fallen heroes.
Sgt. Brian Jeffery Leonhardt, 21, Staff Sgt. Jonathan M. Metzger, 32, Spc. Christopher A. Patterson, 20, Spc. Robert J. Tauteris, Jr., 44, Spc. Serfio Eduardo Perez, 21, and Spc. Nicholas Andrew Taylor, 20, were honored in a memorial tribute at Porter Health Ampitheater at Central Park Plaza. These six brave and selfless men, all part of the Indiana National Guard 713th Engineer Company (nicknamed the Sappers) and based in Valparaiso, paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country during a deployment to Afghanistan in 2012.
Bob Carnagey, Director, Sapper Six Memorial Run, said he was personally overwhelmed at the number of people that showed up under the adverse conditions at 4 p.m. He said a lot of stuff got crushed and damaged. "Just when I was ready to give up, I looked up and there were 25 people there helping put things back together. I had to keep going at that point." He was also overwhelmed by the goodness of the community and the respect in which the 6 soldiers were honored.
Folds of Honor-Northwest Indiana hosted the event. The funds raised would benefit the hosts' scholarship fund. The fund provides scholarships for the children of Northwest Indiana's fallen and disabled heroes.
"It's nice to see that they're putting on an event like this to remember the 6 guys," said Robert Leonhardt, Jr., Sgt. Brian Jeffery Leonhardt's father. "Along with this and the golf outing, it's fantastic that these guys are not forgotten."
At the completion of race registration, the afternoon began with a soulful rendition of Amazing Grace, performed by a member of the Culver Military Pipe and Drum Corps. The pre-race ceremony began with a stirring commemoration, as the names of the fallen heroes were presented. The presentation was followed with a prayer and the National Anthem.
After the introduction of Brigadier General, Joe Osburn, Commander, 81st Troop Brigade, and the Indiana National Guard 713th Combat Engineers, the General addressed the crowd. "This is truly an Indiana National Guard family. Today, with Bob Carnagey and the Valparaiso community, it was outstanding to see everyone come out under these weather conditions." he said. "They are not forgotten, and will never be forgotten."
The athletes then made their way to the starting line. As a remembrance to their brothers, the soldiers of the 713th, running in formation, would lead the race, with the runners and walkers in tow.
The air in downtown Valparaiso was thick with patriotism as many respectful attendees were clad in red, white, and blue, in honor of the event and to show their support of our great country and to those who have served and who continue to serve.
Suzie Bigott, owner of Suzie's Cafe, was present to support the Folds Of Honor. "I think it's a wonderful cause for what we can do to give back for those soldiers who have given their lives for us. I'm happy to be a part of it."
At dusk, the soldiers stood at attention and the crowd silenced, as the mournful sound of Taps resonated in downtown Valparaiso.
As the afternoon ran a gamut of emotion, the somber ambiance would quickly change as the 1st through 3rd place, male and female winners of the race, and 1st place walkers were announced in the varying age categories. The overall winners in each category were presented with a U.S. Army Medal and a Sapper Six hoodie. The awards ceremony concluded the evening.
The event organizers wish to recognize and give special thanks to the event sponsors: Indiana Beverage, Suzie's Cafe & Catering, Family Express, Extra Mile, Folds of Honor, and the National Guard.
For more information, please visit the Northwest Indiana Folds of Honor website at http://www.fohnwi.com.