A 22-mile community walk across the North Fork aimed at honoring fallen service members and raising awareness about veteran suicide will return to Southold on Sunday, June 7, offering participants several ways to take part regardless of age or ability.
Organized by the Bob Feller Act of Valor Foundation, Walk4Valor will begin at 8 a.m. at the Southold American Legion Griswold-Terry-Glover Post 803 on Route 25 and conclude with a community welcome and barbecue at the Southold Fire Department. Participants can choose from four options: the full 22-mile route, an 11-mile walk to Orient Fire House, a 5-mile route ending at the Greenport American Legion, or a virtual option that allows supporters to participate from anywhere.
This year’s event will be led by National Guard officer Lt. Col. Charles J. Sanders and will include stops at local firehouses and American Legion posts along the route. Organizers note that walkers looking for a less strenuous option — including families with strollers, dog owners, younger participants and older residents — can also complete shorter laps at Jean Cochran Park while still supporting the event’s mission. Transportation back to starting locations will be the responsibility of participants.
According to organizers, the event is intended in part to bring attention to the often-cited statistic that an average of 22 U.S. service members and veterans die by suicide each day, while also raising money for the foundation’s scholarship program. The Bob Feller Act of Valor Foundation says its mission centers on supporting and recognizing leadership values among young people and encouraging service, courage and commitment.
Registration remains open through June 7. Entry costs $33.98 including fees, and pre-registered participants who sign up by May 27 are guaranteed event T-shirts. Organizers said refreshments will be available after the walk, with the Southold Fire Department hosting a barbecue at the finish line.