Jacksonville — The Carry the Load Walk and Rally will walk through Jacksonville for the first time in the event’s history today. Founded by Veteran U.S. Navy SEALs, Clint Bruce and Stephen Holley, Carry The Load began as a way to restore the true meaning of Memorial Day. Today, it includes community members as well as its military heroes that participate year-round. The non -profit organization is rooted in raising awareness for the true meaning of Memorial Day.

Darrius Smith, a Marine Corps veteran who served as a supply specialist in Okinawa, Japan, describes the event as a perfect opportunity for the community to honor Memorial Day and America’s fallen heroes.

“This month for military May we not only want to recognize our fallen comrades who gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms, we wanted to share in this tradition as well,” said the Jacksonville native. “This national campaign spreads awareness about Carry the Load and honors those who have gone before us. In Jacksonville, we prepare the location for the Relay bus to come in and showcase what they have to offer.”

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