Every November, organizers of the Honoring Our Heroes Marathon host a fundraising marathon extending from Salem to Rolla, with the total proceeds funneled to local veteran charities. On May 19, during a lunch event, they presented checks to 11 different charities that serve veterans in our area, amounting to $25,000 in raised funds.
• Dent County Veteran’s Emergency Fund
• Salem VFW Post 6280 Poppy Fund (for veterans in need)
• Missouri Veterans Home Assistance League (for veterans needs)
• American Legion Post 99 Auxiliary (for parties at veterans Home)
• Rolla VFW Post 2025 Poppy Fund
• Veteran’s Memorial Park
• Disabled American Veterans Chapter 49
• AUSA Warrior in Need Fund
• AER at Fort Leonard Wood
Also at the May 19 lunch, honorary awards were presented to special individuals who support the organization. The Founder’s Day Award was given to Ron Copeland.
Each year a number of groups support the marathon by providing water stations along the route. Awards presented to these notable groups include:
• The Runners’ Choice award went to Boy Scouts Troop 145.
• Salem City of Peace Garden Club
• Salem Memorial District Hospital and the SHRINE Club of Rolla
• Missouri S&T Student Veteran Resource Association