Teen Remembers Wounded Soldiers

When the 9/11 attacks happened ten years ago, Jonathan Borden of Kennesaw was just nine years old. Two years ago, 17-year-old Borden watched several military biographies on the Military Channel over Memorial Day weekend. The bios were produced by the Wounded Warrior Project to raise awareness of those severely-wounded heroes injured in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

That inspiration led Borden to begin the Run for Wounded Warriors last year, when 400 runners took to the streets of Kennesaw to benefit those wounded for our country’s freedom. This year’s second annual race was held Aug. 6, beginning at Kennesaw First Baptist Church on Main Street.

This year's benefit drew 1,600 racers -- four times the number in last year's race. The race is the third of six races in the , and many volunteers were out bright and early to make sure it was a success. Last year’s race raised more than $5,000. Runners also received a T-shirt designed by Borden. This year's 5K race winner was 31-year-old Daniel Bledsoe with a time of 16:31.

“I’m happy to see people take this seriously,” said Borden, now 19 and a student at Chattahoochee Technical College. “If just one person helps get money for these soldiers, it’s worth it.”

The race organizers hosted eight wounded soldiers as their guests that weekend, Borden said, adding they received a VIP tour of the Georgia Aquarium and Dolphin Show, dinner at on Barrett Parkway, lunch after the run at in Kennesaw, and lodging at in Kennesaw.

“We have a great community here in Kennesaw and lots of support,” Borden said. An “after party” after the race at the Kennesaw Downtown Depot included awards, a performance by Impact Dance, patriotic singing and recognition of World War II veterans.

Next year's race is set for Aug. 4. For more info visit www.runforwoundedwarriors.org.