05/25/2026
Over six months ago, I set a goal for myself: to participate in Boston's Run To Remember five years after hanging up my running shoes. Running there in 2014 was an eye-opening, emotional experience that indirectly led to the formation of the Trooper Black Foundation. I love being surrounded by runners and spectators who understand that remembrance matters and who are all there to pay tribute to the Ultimate Sacrifice made by so many of our First Responders. It’s been a very rough couple of weeks for First Responders here in New England, making events like this more important than ever, to assure that their sacrifices will Never Be Forgotten.
Yesterday meant more than crossing the finish line. I had a tribute poster made up to honor Dad’s memory, which was placed alongside the images of many other Fallen First Responders. It was also shown above the stage. Seeing the face of the father I never knew there, knowing that thousands more people honored his memory and bravery, brought overwhelming pride and heartbreak all at once.
It meant so much more to me than the fact that I finished the 5.1-mile course in 39:20, first in my age category, and more than three minutes faster than when I first ran the race 12 years ago.
I think Dad would have been proud.
And for those of you men age 60-69 who are planning on running the 2026 Trooper Black Foundation 5K for First Responders on October 24, 2026, my sights are set on taking home the first place medal for our age group that day!
The challenge is on!
