‘Run For The Heroes’ Trek 270 Miles Across Georgia to Honor Veterans

May 26, 2011

41NBC Web Producer,

Leaving Columbus, a group of runners is making it their mission to get to Savannah in five days.

As a way to raise money and awareness for ‘House of Heroes’, John Teeples wanted to do something unique to get people’s attention. He had already made the run from Columbus to Savannah once, so he figured he would raise some money for a good cause.

“I thought, well, why don’t I use this, it’s interesting, people will want to hear about it. Use this as a way to make a difference and help others,” Teeples said.

House of Heroes is an organization that helps veterans make repairs to their homes. Teeples says, the repairs are generally easy to do, but the older veterans are not able to get them taken care of.

This week, three other runners are crossing the state with Teeples, and a House of Heroes volunteer, is following them in a motor home to make the crew their food.

Gary Goodman is a 64 year old volunteer. He can’t make the run, so he cooks the food.

“This is all to honor them (the veterans) for the service they have given to our nation…the ones overseas, fighting the wars…and the ones on the streets in the United States,” Goodman said.

Each day, for five days, the runners will complete 52 miles on the road. Every five miles, the group takes a break for water and a snack, then continue for the next five miles. A van full of cold water, drinks, and food follows and waits for the runners at each breaking point.

Each day begins with a hearty meal of bacon, eggs, biscuits, grits, and pretty much anything the group can get in their stomachs. Teeples estimates he eats 10,000 calories a day. He also drinks water non-stop.

The runners say they enjoy when people stop on the road, or wave at them to encourage them. They need all they can get, especially when the Georgia heat is beating down.

If you would like to follow the group, or stop out and cheer them on, here is their schedule;