Friends Honoring Friends in May
Boot Campaign Board Member Mike Rouse and U.S. Navy SEAL Veteran Aaron Kendle are on mission this May to remember and honor those who served.
The two first met in San Diego where Mike, an ultramarathoner, trained and befriended many U.S. Navy SEALs, including Aaron and his roommate Jon “J.T.” Tumilson.
On August 6, 2011, our nation lost 30 brave servicemen and one military working dog in what would be the largest loss of life in Operation Enduring Freedom. Known in the military community as “Extortion 17”, the 31 included many of Aaron’s teammates and Mike’s friends. J.T. was amongst those who perished in action that day.
Not a day goes by when both men don’t think about those who were lost. With Military Appreciation Month in May – a 31 day month – for the last five years, Mike has run the distance to honor those lost that August day. This year, Aaron decided to join him to remember those he served alongside and his brothers and sisters in arms.
“All of these men were professional warriors in the greatest sense,” said Aaron. “Most of them I knew personally and looked up to them to better myself as an operator. Running for these 31 days is a way for me to honor their service, their mentorship, their sacrifice and their undeniable legacy. For them, I am grateful.”
“We are going to honor these 30 men and their canine partner, Bart, the best we can, by running 31 kilometers every day for 31 days for the 31 lives lost on August 6, 2011,” shared Mike.
To join in honoring the fallen and getting a birds eye view of their running logs each day, you can follow them each on Instagram at @mikeyrouse52 or @redmanda252. They have also set up their run as a fundraiser for our mission, where you can donate here.
