Veterans and community members hike in honor of Memorial Day

For Paul Blohm, a veteran of the 4th Infantry Division and the National Guard, the ninth annual Memorial Day Hike by SRQ Vets was an opportunity for veterans to join together — but it was a camaraderie with a noble purpose.

“Today is about remembering the fallen obviously, but to be able to come together and do that means even more," he said. "It almost feels like we need to get back together, because we've spread out, and now this is one of them times we get to concentrate, and heal, and remember the fallen."

The event also brought together family members of veterans and community members.

"We’re able to see, and relate to and understand what our brothers and sisters have gone through losing loved ones, and able to support gold star families and people whose lives have drastically changed because of the cost of war," said Laura Hartman, a volunteer with Concerned Veterans for America. "When we come together, as a community, it provides the opportunity for us to heal and grow together.”

Beginning at J.D. Hamel Park, the 5K hike involved a trip across the John Ringling Causeway to Bird Key and back, with a stop at the Unconditional Surrender statue at Bayfront Park. It was followed by live music and food at J.D. Hamel Park. 

The hike was preceded by a ceremony that included remarks by SRQ Vets co-founder Bill Sterbinsky.

“We do it to remember them and speak their names, tell their stories," he said. "Don't be shy, and love them. Love them just as much as you do today, as if they were there yesterday."