In a time when Memorial Day risks becoming just another long weekend of sales and barbecues, organizations like Carry The Load stand out for their commitment to restoring its profound significance. Founded by two former Navy SEALs, Carry The Load is a national nonprofit dedicated to actively connecting Americans to the sacrifices made by our military, veterans, first responders, and their families. Through meaningful events, education, and support programs, it ensures that remembrance translates into action and gratitude.
A key partner in this mission is A Badge of Honor, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2019 by 9/11 first responders Samantha Horwitz and John Salerno. A Badge of Honor empowers first responders with practical tools for managing post-traumatic stress (PTS), building resilience, and preventing suicide. Their evidence-based wellness workshops, peer support leadership training, and resources have helped hundreds of first responders turn challenges into strengths—wearing their experiences as a true “badge of honor.”
A Meaningful Nonprofit Partnership
The collaboration between Carry The Load and A Badge of Honor creates powerful synergy. Carry The Load provides a platform to honor the fallen and support those who serve, while A Badge of Honor equips active first responders and veterans with the mental and emotional tools needed to carry their loads every day. Together, they bridge remembrance with real-world resilience, fostering community connections that extend far beyond a single weekend.
This partnership highlights shared values: gratitude for service, support for families and survivors, and a focus on holistic wellness. Whether through joint awareness efforts, shared events, or mutual amplification of each other’s programs, the two organizations amplify their impact—honoring sacrifice while investing in the living heroes who continue to serve.
The Dallas Memorial March: A Highlight of Memorial May
One of the most powerful expressions of Carry The Load’s mission is the Dallas Memorial March at Reverchon Park in Dallas, Texas. This free, community-wide event brings thousands together to remember, honor, and connect.
When: Starts at 12 noon on Sunday, May 24th (gates open), with opening ceremonies at 4:00 PM. The march continues overnight with a Silent Midnight Walk and concludes on Monday, May 25th at 1:00 PM after closing ceremonies.
Where: Reverchon Park, 3505 Maple Ave, Dallas, TX 75219.
What to Expect: Participants of all ages can walk any distance—from a symbolic mile to the full relay—along the historic Katy Trail. Families enjoy food trucks, hydration stations, a Kids Zone, storytelling, and community building. The event features ceremonies, tributes, and opportunities to share stories of service and sacrifice.
Whether you walk for 20 minutes or 20 hours, your presence helps restore the true meaning of Memorial Day: solemn remembrance paired with active gratitude. The march honors the fallen while supporting the living through Carry The Load’s programs, which include counseling, adaptive training, service dogs, scholarships, and more.
Why It Matters
Carry The Load’s work reminds us that true honor goes beyond words—it demands action. By partnering with organizations like A Badge of Honor, they ensure that the weight of service is shared, the legacies of the fallen endure, and those still serving receive the support they deserve.
This Memorial Day, join the movement. Attend the Dallas Memorial March, learn more at CarryTheLoad.org, explore wellness resources at ABadgeofHonor.org, or support both nonprofits. In doing so, you help carry the load—and keep the true spirit of Memorial Day alive. Direct Donation Link: https://participate.carrytheload.org/site/TR/2026/CTL2026?pg=team&team_id=17015&fr_id=2212
All are welcome. No registration required for general attendance. Come honor, remember, and connect.
