PAPILLION, Neb. (KLKN) — Over 200 people crossed the finish line at Werner Park on Sunday.
The marchers travelled 50 miles, starting at the state capitol building on Saturday and finishing in Papillion.
“It’s very overwhelming to see all of the people that come out to support us,” said Scott Stogdill, one of the marchers. “The family, the friends, the community. It shows that we do care.”
Almost a thousand people waited to greet their loved ones with tears, hugs, signs and flags to celebrate their journey and the special meaning behind it.
“Every emotion bubbles up in you,” said Sarah Backes, one of the marchers. “And then you look with your teammates and your brothers and sisters in the march, and see everything welling up in them. It’s a feeling of pride but yet purpose because that’s what this march is all about.”
The march is raising money and awareness for veterans facing homelessness and mental health challenges.
It’s called Operation Freedom Path, and it took more than 22 hours and over 120,000 steps.
For so many who made the trek, it was personal.
“That’s my husband, and he’s currently stationed at Offutt Air Force Base,” said Backes. “I’m a veteran who started at Offutt. Doing this here, with Offutt in Bellevue and Papillion, it’s very near and dear to our hearts.”
Hundreds of volunteers joined the marchers, providing water, help and encouragement to keep spirits up.
While the journey may be exhausting, several say it’s the least they can do to support those who served our country.
“Being a veteran myself, I think we need more of this,” said Stogdill. “The fact that 22 veterans commit suicide a day needs to change. I found this march through my brother, and it’s making a difference. I just want to make a difference.”
Now that they have finished their walk, Stogdill and Backes said their plan for the rest of the day is to relax.
“I’m going to eat a pizza. A big old pizza, with pineapple on it,” Backes said.
“I’m going to sit down. Sit in my hot tub, soak my feet,” Stogdill said.
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