In downtown Phoenix, a significant gathering took place outside Chase Field on Sunday morning, as hundreds of local residents participated in a Memorial Day walk to honor those who gave their lives in service to the nation. This event, part of the Carry the Load initiative, saw participants carrying flags, wearing weighted backpacks, and holding photos of fallen soldiers and first responders as they walked a three-and-a-half-mile route.

Community Honors Sacrifice

Chris Brezler, a veteran from Fountain Hills, emphasized the importance of such events. ‘Weekends like this, we have a holiday to memorialize and remember our veterans, so it’s important to come out and support,’ he stated. Brezler, who served many years ago, expressed a personal commitment to giving back to the community.

Carry the Load, a nonprofit organization, has been organizing these walks for 15 years, turning May into ‘Memorial May.’ Phoenix is one of over 75 communities nationwide hosting these walks, which are open to all participants at no cost. Before the walk commenced, attendees listened to personal stories from local heroes and their families, deepening the emotional impact of the event.

Remembering the Fallen

Sean Bulmann, the Arizona ambassador for Carry the Load, highlighted the significance of the event. He recalled past marches that honored individuals like Brendan McDonough, the lone survivor of the 2013 Yarnell Hill Fire, and the two Marines among the fallen Granite Mountain Hotshots. ‘Carry the Load is to bring back the true meaning of Memorial Day — to remember those that gave their life in the line of service, from military to first responders, to anyone who’s given their life to service,’ Bulmann explained.

Participants like Montrel Lee, whose grandfather served in the Army, shared their reflections. ‘No matter what, we appreciate everything that they did for us,’ Lee said, acknowledging the enduring debt owed to those who served.

Ongoing Challenges for Veterans

The event also shed light on the ongoing struggles faced by veterans and first responders, particularly concerning mental health. Brezler noted that the challenges of service do not end when the uniform is removed. ‘It’s 24/7, 365 days a year, and many of them unfortunately carry it with them long after their service is done,’ he remarked. The walk serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting these individuals and their families.

Bulmann conveyed a heartfelt message to the families of the fallen: ‘We carry the memory of your loved ones, and we carry that with us forever. Their legacy will never die.’

For more information about Carry the Load and its initiatives, visit their website at carrytheload.org.

Original reporting: 12News / KPNX (Phoenix) — read the source article.