🇺🇸 Horizon West American Legion Post 419 Hosts Inspiring “Be The One” 5K & Ruck Walk

On November 1, Horizon West came together in a powerful show of unity, purpose, and community support as American Legion Post 419 hosted its annual “Be The One” 5K and Ruck Walk. Veterans, families, local residents, runners, ruckers, and supporters lined up to raise awareness for veteran mental health and suicide prevention — and to honor those who have served our country.

The event showcased the very best of Horizon West: community pride, patriotism, and a shared commitment to supporting America’s heroes.

⭐ What “Be The One” Is All About

“Be The One” is the American Legion’s national initiative urging every American to “be the one” to take action that could save a veteran’s life.

This means:

• Being the one to listen

• Being the one to check in

• Being the one to support

• Being the one to talk openly about mental health

• Being the one to encourage veterans to seek help

Post 419 has embraced this mission wholeheartedly, making veteran mental health advocacy a cornerstone of its community outreach.

🥾 A Powerful Morning in Horizon West

The 5K & Ruck Walk began just after sunrise, with participants carrying rucksacks, flags, and symbols of military pride. Many honored fallen friends whose names were written on rucks, shirts, or carried on tribute cards.

Families pushed strollers. Kids carried mini-rucks. Veterans walked alongside civilians.
It was a true intergenerational, community-wide moment of solidarity.

The event featured:

• A pre-race colors presentation

• A moment of silence for those lost to veteran suicide

• Recognition of active-duty servicemembers and veterans in attendance

• A warmup led by volunteers and local fitness partners

• Post-race fellowship, vendor tables, and community resources

💙 Supporting Veteran Mental Health Locally

The funds and awareness raised from the event directly support local programs operated or sponsored by American Legion Post 419, including:

• Veteran wellness checks

• Peer-to-peer outreach

• Family support services

• Community education and prevention programs

• Collaboration with local mental health professionals

Post 419 continues to expand its role in Horizon West as a support hub for veterans and military families, ensuring that no one in the community fights their battles alone.

🏅 Community Engagement & Growing Momentum

This year’s turnout showed how deeply Horizon West cares about its veterans. Participation included:

• Local businesses and sponsors

• Veteran-owned companies

• Schools and student groups

• First responders

• Fitness clubs and rucking groups

• Families and neighbors of all ages

Every person there played a part in amplifying the Be The One message.

Post 419’s booth served as a connection point for attendees to learn about membership, volunteering, and ways to support ongoing programs. Many visitors expressed interest in joining, donating, or collaborating on future events.

🌄 More Than a Race — A Movement

The success of the event was measured not only in miles completed, but in conversations had, connections made, and awareness raised.

As one participant shared:
“If today encouraged even one veteran to speak up, or one friend to check in, then every step was worth it.”

The “Be The One” mission doesn’t end when the finish line is crossed. It’s a daily commitment — and Horizon West showed it is ready to continue that commitment together.

🇺🇸 Looking Ahead: Post 419’s Growing Role in Horizon West

American Legion Post 419 is expanding its programs, events, and community partnerships throughout 2025. The Post is committed to:

• Leading local veteran support initiatives

• Providing resources for families

• Holding ceremonies and patriotic events

• Hosting community-building gatherings

• Offering youth scholarships and leadership programs

• Growing fellowship among veterans in the Horizon West region

Residents, businesses, and community partners are invited to get involved.

💬 Join the Mission

To learn more about membership, volunteer opportunities, or future events, visit Horizon West American Legion Post 419 or connect with the Post on social media.

Be the one who listens. Be the one who cares.
Be the one who makes a difference.