Race4Warriors battles the elements at Cape Henlopen State Park

When it rains and an armed forces member is deployed in the Middle East, it may be a welcome change in the weather, but there is no change in the duty of that warrior. When it rains and an armed forces member is back home, but has no roof above their head, that weather change may be less welcome and there is little shelter from the precipitation, no matter the rank or amount of service. The active-duty member and the veteran in both cases must endure the weather in order to persevere. 

Race4Warriors held its annual race May 14 to honor those who have served in the Middle East and also provide support for wounded warriors and homeless veterans. The annual race, held during Military Appreciation Month at Cape Henlopen State Park, was slated to be an all-day affair featuring a cornhole tournament and concert, but the rain would not accommodate such moisture-risk activities. Nonetheless CMSgt. (Ret.) Michael Bellorose and his team managed to keep morale high and held a 5K and half marathon. 

The Sussex Central Army JROTC and the Woodbridge Marines JROTC were on the scene in full gear to facilitate the race. Going even further with the gear were some Delaware National Guard members who opted to run the half marathon with their packed rucks accompanying them. Jonathan Guy of Felton was advised that his bag weighed at least 30 pounds while Benni Gomez of Wilmington was told his bag had to weigh 50 pounds. 

Guy and Gomez both volunteered for deployment and will be departing for Kuwait around the end of December.

For more information about Race4Warriors or how to donate, go to race4warriors.org.