9/11 Heroes Run to honor Veterans and fallen heroes

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - The City of Yuma is gearing up for the annual 9/11 Heroes Run, an event dedicated to honoring Veterans, first responders, and families of fallen heroes.

Organizers say the run is not only a tribute, but also a way to empower the next generation through mentorship and community service.

Dale Dumo, a retired U.S. Marine officer and Yuma chapter leader for the Travis Manion Foundation, is serving as the race director.

Alongside him, Mark Martinez, Yuma City Councilman, Army Veteran, and retired law enforcement officer, also joined the discussion about the upcoming race and its mission.

"The Travis Manion Foundation empowers Veterans and families of fallen heroes to develop character in future generations," Dumo said.

The foundation provides holistic well-being resources and mental health support for veterans, families of the fallen, and civilians inspired to give back.

Martinez emphasized the personal significance of the event saying, "9/11 changed the world. Law enforcement, first responders, firemen...its impact on us was profound. Supporting the youth, Veterans, and first responders through the Travis Manion Foundation is a cause we should always remember."

Participants in the 5K race will receive race shirts, merch bags, medals for top finishers, and other commemorative items.

Registrations are open until the day of the race, though organizers encourage signing up early to ensure timely distribution of race materials.

The event runs from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on September 13 at the Pacific Avenue Athletic Complex East Parking Lot and run along the canal past the Ocean to Ocean Bridge to Gateway Park and back.

For those who prefer not to run, the event will also feature static displays from the Yuma Fire Department, Yuma Police Department, Yuma County Sheriff's Office, Border Patrol, and local vendors. It is free for the public to attend.

For more information or to register, visit travismanion.org, click on "Events," and select the 9/11 Heroes Run.

The 9/11 Heroes Run offers a chance to honor the past, support veterans and first responders, and make a meaningful impact on the community.