‘Essence of Freedom Run’ Breaks – Daily North Shore

DEERFIELD A record number 500 runners hit the streets of Deerfield on Memorial Day for the 4th Annual Essence of Freedom 5K/10K Run. The event is the largest fundraiser for Support Our Soldiers Freedom, Inc. (S.O.S. Freedom), a nonprofit that provides financial assistance to Illinois active duty military and veterans.

Thanks to the runners, sponsors and donors we raised over $15,000 for active duty and veterans who need financial support for with expenses that military benefits dont cover such as housing modifications and maintenance, household bills, mental health care, and transition to civilian life said Marilee Papale Shipman, race director and S.O.S. Freedom president.

While the majority of runners were from the Midwest, we had registrants from the Southeast, East Coast and even as far away as Ecuador, said Shipman. Runners ranged in age from seven to 84. Many became emotional and sentimental as they passed tribute signs that honored friends and loved ones.

Scott Friedlander, Deerfield, was the first 5K runner to cross the finish line with a time of 16 minutes and 59 seconds. Jeff Mousseau, Wheaton, won the overall 10K race with a time of 43 minutes and 42 seconds. Race results can be viewed at http://results.active.com/events/essence-of-freedom-run4.

Prior to the race start, Rep. Brad Schneider addressed the runners and spectators and incoming Stevenson High School freshman Emmie Ginsberg sang the National Anthem. We are grateful to everyone who supported this event and helped us honor the true meaning of Memorial Day, said Shipman. Sponsors included:

Submitted bySOS Freedom:https://sos-freedom.org.

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'Essence of Freedom Run' Breaks - Daily North Shore