American Legion Post 586 in Ohio held its first race to support the organization’s suicide prevention mission.
Runners and walkers stood on a starting line outside the home of American Legion Post 586 in Tipp City, Ohio, at 10 a.m. on April 25, to participate in the post’s first Be the One 5K. The event was held to draw attention and support for The American Legion’s veteran suicide prevention mission, and to recognize American Legion Family Day.
“The Be the One 5K was more than just a run, it was a reminder that together, we can make a real difference,” said Mike Brenner, 2nd vice commander of Post 586. “From the moment the race began, the energy was undeniable. Runners and walkers of all ages took to the course with a shared purpose, and the photos from the event tell the story best — smiles at the starting line, determination along the route, and a strong sense of community all the way through the finish.”
The Be the One 5K was the vision of Post 586 1st Vice Commander Brian Fowle. He has wanted to conduct a 5K in support of Be the One and veteran suicide awareness. And thanks to support of his Legion Family and community, it happened.
“It was a Legion Family effort,” Fowle said. “We had our Sons, Auxiliary and Riders from the post and they all stepped in and helped out with this event. We couldn’t have done it without the volunteers.”
Before and after the 5K, a resource fair was held for community members to speak with local veteran support services. This included services from Dayton VA outreach specialists, Operation Veteran and Caregiver Support, service officers, Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services, Save A Warrior and more. Fundraising efforts for the event benefited Save A Warrior, an Ohio-based retreat that provides counseling services to veterans for mental health and wellness, suicide prevention and post-traumatic stress. Thanks to the generosity of race participants, sponsors and community supporters, the event raised $15,000 for Save A Warrior to send three veterans through the program.
“This incredible contribution will help provide life-changing support for veterans in need, reinforcing exactly why events like this matter so much,” Brenner said. “This event would not have been possible without the tremendous support of our volunteers, sponsors, and community members who came together to make it all happen. Their time, effort and dedication created an experience that went far beyond a race. It became a powerful show of unity and purpose.”
It took a lot of coordination to organize the post’s first 5K, Fowle said, from getting permission from the city, mapping out a route, support from police officers and firefighters, working with a race timing company and getting sponsors. The sponsors donated money or door prizes, such as a gym bag and gift certificate from the YMCA and restaurant gift cards.
“I just feel blessed that everybody came together and found a worthy event to support,” Fowle shared. “I'm hoping to be able to do this next year on American Legion Family Day.”
- Be the One