More than 300 runners laced up their sneakers to run in the first 9/11 Heroes 5k in State College Sunday afternoon.
Shannon McCombie was at this year’s first 9/11 heroes run in state college to share her brother’s story.
Brandan was a navy pilot and died 14 years ago protecting his country.
“It’s beautiful I’m going to share an email my brother wrote to us telling us that if he was to give his life for our country and he would do so with honor,” she said. “He sent that to us after 9/11 right before he was killed.”
The run is a way to remember all the lives lost on and after September 11th.
The race is hosted by the Travis Manion Foundation and helps raise money for veteran programs.
“I hope that the money raised from this can go towards getting veterans the help they need for whatever services the require,” Penn State Senior Jack Keiter. “I just wanted to show my support.”
Race director Laura Krause says this a way to honor Brandan’s memory and many other fallen veterans.
“Having this event kind of reminds them that we still care and we will always remember what he has given to Penn State and all of our nation,” Krause explained. “Having the McCombie family- here and having them be proud of what we’re doing that’s what we’re all about.”
Shannon was proud to be able to run in Brandan’s honor and help raise money for current veterans.
“He knows that I’m doing this today,” said Shannon. “He’s right here right now. He’s beyond happy that his story can help to inspire and share with others and he’s beyond happy to give his life to protect our country and to help others.”
The proceeds from the race will go directly to the Travis Manion foundation and then distributed to veteran programs in our region.
