‘Journey of remembrance’

Project RELO, based in Michigan, is a nonprofit focusing on career opportunities for veterans, but its newest mission is a bit different. The Task Force Tribute, according to publicity materials, is “a veteran-inspired journey of remembrance, honoring the 7,074 servicemembers who gave their lives in combat operations since 9/11. A mile will be traveled for each servicemember who gave the ultimate sacrifice.” The journey will be undertaken by a joint-service team of Project RELO alumni.

The launch took place Aug. 21, on the lawn of the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing. From there, the team will travel to Seattle, then back across the country, and is slated to reach Washington, D.C., on Sept. 11. Along the way, an online map shows the places the team will stop to collect stories from veterans and their families that will become part of a “Living Virtual Military Monument.” (Stories can also be shared at taskforcetribute.org/share-a-story.)

Other stops, events and escorts are planned, and local groups – including American Legion posts – are invited to take part. According to executive director Christian Anschuetz, a number of posts in Washington state have already jumped onboard.

Learn more about the Task Force Tribute, and how your post can participate, at taskforcetribute.org or facebook.com/taskforcetribute.