Courage and a fighting spirit deserve to be honored.

That’s the philosophy behind a special event Carter County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Myles Cook is organizing for the community.

On Saturday, July 22, the community is invited to come out and participate or show their support at the Warrior Way 10k.

“The whole idea is a celebration of courage and the fighting spirit, and special recognition for local heroes,” Cook said. “This event is to showcase the strength of our community, and to bring our local warriors together, whether they be cancer survivors, veterans, first responders, or athletes.”

The Warrior Way 10K is designed for participants to either walk, run, or “ruck” the distance. Those who choose to “ruck” it must tackle the course while carrying a weighted pack, much the way members of the military train with their rucksack. Cook said there is also a 5k option for participants.

The 10k will begin at Crossfit Kolòna, located at 1742 W. Elk Ave, at 10 a.m. on July 22. From there, the course will follow the Tweetsie Trail into historic downtown Elizabethton. Participants will pass through the Veterans Walk of Honor and then make their way to the Veterans Monument in front of the Carter County Courthouse. After circling the monument, the course follows the same path back to Crossfit Kolòna. Cook said the 5k option will cover half the course.

The event is free, but Cook said participants are encouraged to make a donation to the Wishes for Warriors organization if they would like to do so. Cook said donations for Wishes for Warriors will also be collected on the day of the event.

Wishes for Warriors is a non-profit organization founded in 2014 by Bryan Marshall, a retired U.S. Marine Corps veteran, who wanted to find ways to help veterans returning from deployment “wounded of body or mind.” The program helps get veterans outdoors and taking part in physical activity.

The concept is one that Cook understands well. He is not only a deputy with the Sheriff’s Office, but Cook is also a Lance Corporal in the Marines, and he knows first hand the issues that military members and first responders face.

“Many of our local heroes face challenges after critical incidents and use physical activity to cope with those challenges,” Cook said. “We believe participating in an uplifting community event can help heal those wounds.”

For more information on the event or to sign up in advance, visit the Warrior Way website at www.warriorway.org. Participants can also sign up on the day of the event.