MISSION: TO END VETERAN SUICIDE

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The Warriors Walk

The Warriors Walk is a Not-For-Profit Corporation based in Illinois, uniting a network of VFWs, American Legions, businesses, and schools throughout the Chicago area. Together, we are dedicated to ending Veteran suicide and raising awareness for the mental health challenges faced by our nation’s heroes.

Founded in 2019 by Ryan Brazel, the Warriors Walk has been proudly supported by the Harry E. Anderson VFW Post #9545 and has experienced exponential growth.

In 2024, the Thomas E. Hartung American Legion Post #1977 transitioned from a lead supporter to a managing partner, playing a pivotal role as we continue to grow and expand into an independent organization.

With the support of our community, we are determined to make a lasting impact on the issue of Veteran suicide. Together, we can work toward creating a brighter future for those who have served.

learn more about us

2025

Warriors Walk T-Shirts

Available for $25.00 at:
New Lenox VFW #9545

09/12/2025 9:00 AM
***FREE***

2026 Ruck March!

Join us on Saturday September 12th, 2026 at the New Lenox Village Commons (1 Veterans Parkway) to Ruck March against Veteran suicide. Check in starts at 8:00 AM

Create a Team!

Begin raising money amongst your family and friends and fight against Veteran suicide!
Once an account is created through the link below, you can simply set your goal and share your unique donation link with your supporters

join the fight!

09/12/2026 11:00 AM-5:00PM
***FREE***

Patriots Party!

The Patriots Party will be held on September 12th, 2026 at the New Lenox Village Commons (1 Veterans Parkway). Come celebrate with food, drinks, vendors, live music, and kid’s activities

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2026 Design Contest Winner!

Emerson Doty of Lincolnway West wins the Warriors Walk annual T-shirt design contest with his powerful message of unity.

see the past winners

***FREE***

Stand Against The Silence

If you have lost a Veteran to suicide then the Warriors Walk would like to honor them. Through this program, the Warriors Walk will print a free set of memorial dog tags to place at our Ruck March

Apply now

About the March

The Warriors Walk is a FREE event dedicated to raising awareness for Veteran suicide prevention through a ruck march. A ruck march, a longstanding military tradition, involves walking while carrying a backpack or weighted pack, symbolizing strength, perseverance, and unity.

DISTANCE OPTIONS:
-The Memorial Mile (1 mile)
-5K (3.1 miles)
-5 miles
-10 miles
-20 miles

WHEN & WHERE
The second Saturday of September, 9:00 AM at the New Lenox Village Commons (1 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL). Registration begins at 8:00 AM.

ROUTE
East along the Old Plank Road Trail towards Harlem Ave. Halfway points for each distance will be marked, and participants will turn around to complete the march back at the Village Commons.

Get Help

Making a Difference

The Warriors Walk is dedicated to supporting Veterans and their families by raising funds to provide essential mental health care. Every dollar raised through fundraising, events, sponsorships, and partnerships goes toward organizations that promote positive mental health for Veterans.

Our Commitment to Veterans
We collaborate with various organizations that specialize in providing accessible, stigma-free mental health services for Veterans, Service Members, and their families. These organizations offer:

*Cost-free and affordable therapy sessions tailored to trauma treatment.
*Ongoing access to mental health care through in-person and telehealth services.
*Personalized support through a network of experienced mental health professionals.

By participating in The Warriors Walk, you are directly contributing to life-changing mental health services for those who have served our country.

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