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Department of Iowa’s 5K draws nearly 100 participants while sharing information on Be the One and other Legion offerings. 

Nearly 100 Department of Iowa American Legion Family members and others in the community came together May 16 to commemorate Armed Forces Day through the department’s third annual Stars Stripes Spirit 5K.

But the event, which took place at Gray’s Lake Park in Des Moines, was about more than honoring U.S. servicemembers. It also was an opportunity to share information about the Legion’s veteran suicide prevention mission, learn about Legion programs and provide valuable veteran resources.

“We originally started out as a fundraising idea as something new and different. We chose to do it right before Memorial Day,” Department of Iowa Commander Darrin Alderson said. “The other intention behind it is to expose ourselves to potential new members. And we also have our (department) service officer there that can answer any questions from veterans.”

Participants had the opportunity to either run or walk around Gray’s lake. The entry fees collected for participation in the 5K go toward supporting the department’s service officer program. Runners also can participate in a Most Patriotic Costume contest.

Also on site was information on various American Legion programs, including prominent messaging.

“Be the One’s much more than just veteran suicide,” Alderson said. “It encompasses everything that the Legion does, whether it be community service, community involvement. Be the One can make a change in somebody’s life, whether they’re a veteran or Legion member or not. We still want to impact those people and talk about our programs that we have out there.”

Alderson, a member of Harry L. Anderson Post 34 in Oskaloosa, enjoys being at the Stars Stripes Spirit 5K. “It’s fun, because it’s kind of what I do at the post level, too,” he said. “But it’s also nice to get different people involved with at least one activity. And we’re trying to other new (events), too.”

Alderson said the 5K is an opportunity to provide an event for all ages, while exposing non-members to what the Legion has to offer.

“When you start looking at the younger veterans and their families, this is stuff that they can do together – whether it be running or walking,” he said. “That was the other thing we were looking at, too: What else can we do that doesn’t center around just going to a post and doing a meal or something. Something different that will promote not only mental health, but also physical health.”