On Sunday, hundreds of folks showed up at the Brush Mountain Sportsmen’s Association to participate in the annual Sweat For Vets road race.  Kevin Yingling enlisted in the United States Army in 1999, and served for eight years.  He says he looks forward to this event every year.

“This is my third year.  I missed the first year, but it seems like every year we get more and more, so that makes you feel good to be a part of something like this,” said Yingling.

Yingling was deployed to Afghanistan in 2002, and says it’s great to see so many people honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“It’s just a great way whether you are a vet or just a civilian to give back to people who have given so much,” said Yingling.

Jayme Rhodes is the race director, and a veteran herself.  She said this event is the perfect way to bring the community together for a common cause.

“We really wanted to do something in the area to give back to local veterans, and I feel like this is a great way to get people outside, enjoy the outdoors, enjoy the beautiful trails that our community has, and really get out there in Central, PA and be able to give back to local veterans,” said Rhodes.

WTAJ’s John Clay, a veteran of the United States Navy, was on hand Sunday to emcee the event.  Proceeds will go directly towards caring for local veterans in the Alleghenies.  Last year, they raised nearly $20,000, and with the outpouring of support this year, Rhodes hopes they can top it.

“It’s very emotional for me.  It’s great to see so many people come out and support the community, and every year it’s growing, so every year we’re able to give more and more back to veterans and I’m glad that the word is spreading that Sweat For Vets is becoming bigger every year,” said Rhodes.

Yingling said Sunday’s strong turnout speaks volumes about the communities love for it’s country. 

“It shows that our community supports us, and even though sometimes you feel like you may be forgotten, it’s events like this that make you know that people appreciate what you do and what you sacrificed,” said Yingling.