Thanks to everyone who helped make race successful

Editor,

I would like to publicly thank all of the donors, first responders, volunteers, and runners who helped to support the 14th annual Captain Christopher Cash Memorial 5k in Old Orchard Beach this past weekend (June 23). Proceeds from the run will go towards two $1,000 scholarships for Old Orchard Beach High School Students and towards Veterans Count Maine, a program of Easterseals Maine.

Captain Cash was killed on June 24, 2004 in Baqubah, Iraq when insurgents attacked his unit with small-arms fire and rocket propelled grenades. He was shot as he shouted for his men to take cover. 14 days after his death his parents, Nancy and Bob Kelley, with support of the Old Orchard Beach community created a scholarship in his name, the inaugural “Run for Cash” was held a year later on the anniversary of his death in 2005 to raise money for the scholarship.

When I think about the our fallen service members the words of Ernest Hemmingway who said: “Those of us alive have a duty to those who are no longer here… Our duty is to honor them by living for them.” Since that inaugural run 14 years ago, Nancy and Bob have given over $36,000 dollars to deserving students – each who serve as a fitting tribute to Chris.

When Nancy asked me to take over management of the race last year I was humbled at the thought of being charged with preserving the legacy of her son. Today I am tremendously thankful for the continued outpouring of support from local businesses who committed to preserving Chris’ legacy and turning a devastating loss for a mother into an amazing opportunity for both students in the OOB community and local Veterans.

It would be impossible to name everyone who contributed to this years race but I wanted to extend a special thank you to our major sponsors: Poland Springs, Blow Brothers, Perrone & Sons Striping, Texas Roadhouse, Redfin, Powderhorn Campground and Hid’n Pines Campground.

Please visit www.vetscount.org/maine to learn more about Captain Cash and how you can help support a local Veteran in need. Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s race a success!

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