Run For The Fallen CT- July 28, 2012

You must come out and do this next year! It was totally worth . When I got to the place to meet up in Tolland, I realized I was not the only crazy person. I was lucky, coming from Ellington. I found out some of these fine folks came from as far as Waterford! After we were driven to the , we listened as Cliff Paquette read the 11 names of the Fallen being honored in that segment. Then we were offered several large Amercian flags to carry, as well as two Gold Star Flags which were being presented to the families in Glastonbury later in the morning. We then proceeded to run down Rte 140 in the direction of Ellington, being led by a jeep type vehicle with flags on the bag, also being escorted by the Patriot Guard Riders. Bringing up the rear was a huge flat bed tow truck, with a sign about the run, and cautioning motorists to slow down. There was excellent support along the course, with water and Gatorade, and Clif bars being offered frequently. There was a photographer, Steve, who rode along side us, and took pictures, while on his bike. Everyone did a superior job ensuring we were taken care of. There was also a medic riding along. At any point in time if a runner got tired (not me of course!) they could get into one of the escort vehicles and ride for a while, then get out and run. At each KM marker there were pictures and info about the soldiers to remind usof the reason We were out there. We then proceeded to run up Pinnacle Rd. and over Ellington Ave., until we got to Snipsic Lake Rd. and ran along side the lake on the dirt road.... beautiful. When we reached the end of Segment 1, where my car was, back at 352 Shenipsit Lake Rd. there were the next group of runner ready to start their segment, and join up with those from Segment 1 who were continuing on toward Glastonbury. They then read the next list of names, and you get the idea. I wanted to keep going... it was a gorgeous day, and the people on the run were so nice. We had lots to chit chat about while running. In addition to all of the above, it was a very social run. Many runners reguarly did long distance running, some were mothers of children similar in age to mine. Two runners, a husband and wife,wore theit kilts,from the Marine Corps. Where else can you run down Route 140 with a guys wearing a skirt? He even joked about it. The people are what made this event so special... I feel like I was part of something very humbling, honorable, and uplifting. Brings a lump in your throat to run with a flag, especially one with the name of a brave soldier who gave their life for us!
Come run a segment next year!