LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Veterans, their families and community members walked together in honor of those who lost their lives serving the country.
The 6th Operation Battle Born 60-mile march brought participants together for a 10-mile leg as part of the multi-day event.
“You could spend Memorial Day any way you want to, you know, BBQ, hang out with your friends. But this just, I don’t know, it hit different for me this year to really see why we’re really out here,” said Christina McGregor with UNLV Rebel Vets.
Ross Bryant, an Army veteran with UNLV Military and Veterans Services Center, led the march. Bryant served 25 years in the Army and lost five soldiers to accidents during his service time and commands.
“When you lose a young man to an accident, the impact to that family is never forgotten,” Bryant said.
The mission of Operation Battle Born is to honor the 59 Nevadans killed while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
“As a Navy veteran, I’m able to come together on a Memorial weekend with an Air Force veteran, Marines, Coast Guard, Space Force, and we’re all one big family,” said Melvin Taylor with UNLV Rebel Vets.
Koko Makafigueroa walked for her husband’s grandfather, who was a POW in Korea, and for airmen and airwomen on Nellis Air Force Base.
Beth Bennett walked in memory of Ron Bondock, who had a heart attack and passed after doing a 5K.
Jose Lares, a former Marine, said he disconnected from anything military oriented after leaving the Marines and became isolated.
“You do this in remembrance of people who’ve given a lot more. It’s a good way to gain perspective that you’re lucky,” Lares said.
Gold Star families who have lost someone in the line of duty also participated.
Amy Frost walked in honor of her husband Tom, who died in Desert Storm.
“Community is what we need and create your own community, and there’s plenty of great places in Las Vegas to do that,” Frost said.
The operation ends Monday on Memorial Day. Thousands of dog tags, including those of the Nevadans killed in Iraq and Afghanistan, will be delivered to Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City.
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