Mahoning Valley 9/11 Heroes Run honors sacrifice, service, and remembrance

Veterans, first responders, and families laced up their shoes Sunday morning for the Mahoning Valley 9/11 Heroes Run, part of a nationwide race series organized by the Travis Manion Foundation.

The event, held at Kent State University’s Trumbull campus, is designed to honor the lives lost in the September 11th attacks as well as the military members and first responders who continue to serve.

“This isn’t just a 5K to run. It’s not a race, it’s an event — a way to honor those people and show how much we care about them,” said Trisha Menendez, the local race director.

This year marks the third time Warren has hosted the Heroes Run. The Mahoning Valley was the first in Ohio to bring the event to the community, joining more than 90 other runs across the country. The series is named in memory of Marine 1st Lt. Travis Manion, who was killed in Iraq in 2007 after enlisting following the 9/11 attacks.

Participants said the day wasn’t about competition but about community. Veterans, active-duty service members, police officers, firefighters, and families all took part in the race.

“My brothers and I all joined the military, and it was after 9/11,” said Kristen Neely, who has served in the U.S. Army and National Guard for nearly 18 years. “They both got out since then, but seeing all these people in just this environment, it warms my heart that people still support the military.”

Neely added that events like the Heroes Run serve as a reminder to younger generations. “Well, if we forget it, it'll repeat itself, right? So we just have to do better and support the ones that still serve and be here for the ones that, you know, gave their all.”

More than 100 people participated in this year’s race, which featured not only community members but also local police, firefighters, and EMS personnel. Menendez said the growth of the event reflects the community’s ongoing commitment to remembrance.

The Travis Manion Foundation carries forward the Marine’s words before his final deployment — “If not me, then who…” — a motto that inspires both service and sacrifice.