Kentucky Veterans Host Annual Memorial Day Walk For the Fallen

Daviess County is beyond blessed to have an organization like V.E.T. aka Veterans Empowered Together in our community doing good work not only for veterans, but all who live here.

This will be the third year that V.E.T. has organized a Memorial Day Walk for the Fallen. It was originally founded 10 years ago by my friend Derek "Doc" Van Tuyl, a U.S. Army Combat Medic Veteran who was awarded a Bronze Star Medal for heroic service. Each year, he has invited folks to join him on an 11 mile walk to honor those he served with as well as others in the area who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Derek Van Tuyl

Online registration for those who wish to participate in the walk this year is already open at www.veteransempoweredtogether.com/registration. The first 50 walkers will get a free t-shirt. You can also register the morning of the event, May 27th downtown at the Shelton Memorial on Veterans Blvd. starting at 8AM.

At 9AM, the opening remembrance ceremony will begin and is open to anyone regardless of whether you wish to do the walk. A special part of the ceremony includes a reading of veterans' names. Those who wish to honor a loved one can email info@veteransempoweredtogether.com and they will be added to the list.

Please include:

1. Rank and Name

2. Branch of service

3. KIA Date

4. Theatre of service

V.E.T. will also have a flag display downtown next to the Shelton Memorial as well as a flag display at the halfway point. Each flag in the display represents someone who died in the line of duty.

Derek Van Tuyl

The walk will begin shortly after the ceremony around 9:30AM and there will be two groups this year. One group of those who will go at a faster pace and another group for those who want to take their time. Walkers often carry mementos or photos of fallen soldiers, rucks, or patriotic clothing, and Derek always leads the way with a huge American flag.

Derek Van Tuyl

From Shelton Memorial, the groups will head down Frederica all the way to Southtown Blvd. The halfway point at Derek's house will have snacks and drinks before continuing the second half of the walk. From the halfway point, the route continues on Carter Rd and then turning onto Parrish Ave. The group will head back down Frederica to Shelton Memorial. Once the walk is finished, all are welcome to gather at Buffalo Wild Wings around 3PM.

Here is Doc sharing more information about the Memorial Day Walk for the Fallen with a special thanks to all who are sponsoring this annual event.

Even if you don't plan to walk, please come to the remembrance ceremony. It's a very moving experience and a way to honor those who gave their all to protect and ensure freedom for all. A special thank you to our friends of V.E.T. and Derek "Doc" Van Tuyl for organizing and for all they do for the Owensboro area. They've already given so much by serving our country and continue to make a difference every day. You can following them on Facebook to support them and stay informed about future events

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