Crossing the finish line to honor America’s veterans
When Tricia Oehler, a wife and daughter of Navy veterans, spotted a billboard in Cincinnati for a 5K event dedicated to supporting disabled veterans, she knew she wanted to get involved.
"My grandparents, cousins, uncles, father, stepfather and husband all served our country," Oehler said. "Seeing that billboard excited me because it combined my passion for supporting veterans with my love of running."
More than a decade after spotting that billboard, Oehler has participated in every DAV 5K except for one. Since 2019, she has raised over $8,000 to support ill and injured veterans.
Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, she remained committed to her mission by participating in DAV's virtual 5K, which ended up being a deeply meaningful experience for her.
"The virtual 5K was the most special year for me," she recalled. "My stepfather, Robert Ewers, who was a Navy veteran, was suffering from Alzheimer's at 
the time and was housebound. I planned my route so that I would end up at his house. When I arrived, I gave him the medal the DAV team had sent me. So it felt like he was able to participate with me. "
Though Tricia's stepfather has since passed, she continues participating in the DAV 5K and has encouraged about 30 of her friends and family members to join her over the years.
When inviting others to join the race, Oehler shares why DAV is so important to her.
"I tell people that it's just an incredible way to help our everyday heroes,” Oehler said. “Our nation's veterans have sacrificed a piece of their lives to keep us free, so I love that I can give back by exercising and raising money."
The DAV 5K is a walk, roll, run and ride that honors those who served and raises awareness of the issues America’s veterans face daily. This event would not be possible without the dedication and generosity of our fundraisers and supporters like Oehler.
You, too, can help by participating virtually or in person or supporting a team to raise funds for veterans. To sign up for the DAV 5K, click here.
