The annual Walk for the Wounded — a major fundraiser for veterans and their families — returns to the Ocean City Boardwalk on Saturday morning (Sept. 26). Anybody is invited to participate. Read more (“Ocean City Asks Folks to Walk for the Wounded on Sept. 26“) and see the quick guide below.
WHAT: The 7th annual Walk for the Wounded, a three-mile walk aimed at drawing attention to the plight of returning soldiers and their families, while raising funds to help meet their critical needs
WHO: Operation First Response, a nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance to wounded soldiers and their families. Presenting Sponsor is Ocean City Home Bank, and numerous other supporters, advertisers and walkers pitch in.
Sergeant Matthew Sonderman, United States Marine Corps (retired), who was severely wounded when his Humvee was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED), and James Levison, U.S. Army, who experienced symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury after serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, will speak before the event.
WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 26
- 8 a.m.: Tidal Wave band begins to perform
- 8:30 a.m.: Registration begins
- 9:30 a.m.: Introductions and welcomes, including: Steve Brady, President and CEO of Ocean City Home Bank; Emcee Phil Martelli, head coach of St. Joseph’s University men’s basketball team; Benediction by Fred Banner of Shore Medical Center; Pledge of Allegiance by Ocean City American Legion; National Anthem by Marmora resident Julia Fumo, age 14
- 9:45 a.m.: Remarks by Peggy Baker, chief executive officer of Operation First Response; James Levison and Matthew Sonderman
- 1o a.m.: The three-mile walk begins at the Music Pier and proceeds to 14th Street.
- 1 p.m.: All children who raise $10 or more receive a wristband for rides at Gillian’s Wonderland Pier from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
WHERE: Ocean City Music Pier, Moorlyn Terrace and Boardwalk, Ocean City, N.J.
