6th annual Honor and Remember run brings community together in tribute

VELPEN, Ind. — August 8, 2026 — Veterans, active-duty military members, first responders, Gold Star families, and community members gathered at Cool Springs in Velpen, Indiana, on Saturday, August 8, for the OFS sixth annual Honor and Remember Run.

More than 200 participants of all ages took part in the family-friendly 5K, 10K trail race, and Ruck Run. Throughout the morning, runners carried Honor and Remember flags along the course and across the finish line as families, friends, volunteers, and supporters cheered them on. The gathering brought people together to recognize military veterans, first responders, Gold Star families, fallen heroes, and all who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

“What began six years ago as a way to honor and remember the men and women who gave their lives in service has grown into a tradition that brings our community together year after year. We remember them by telling their stories and keeping their legacies alive. We honor them not only in every step of this run, but in how we live—with purpose, gratitude, and a responsibility to one another. Each year, we are humbled to welcome more people and set new attendance and fundraising records. That growth is a testament to the character and patriotism of this community and a reminder of the responsibility we share: to make this run as meaningful as the lives of the people we gather to honor and remember.”

- Ryan Menke, Chief Strategy Officer, OFS

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Before the races began, participants and guests gathered for an opening ceremony at the VAU Fallen Heroes Memorial, a traveling tribute created by Veterans and Athletes United featuring thousands of dog tags honoring fallen service members and Gold Star families. Speakers included Ryan Menke of OFS; Gold Star Mother Sandy Terwiske; Derrick Lawalin, Chief of Police for the Tell City Police Department; Johnny Butler of the Honor and Remember organization; and Eric Evitts of OFS, a United States Marine Corps veteran. Evitts presented one of two Honor and Sacrifice flags sponsored this year to the Tell City Police Department in memory of a fallen member of the department, while the second will be presented privately to a Gold Star family at a later date. A 21-gun salute, TAPS, and a moment of silence added to the ceremony as speakers reflected on service, sacrifice, and remembrance.

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Following the ceremony, participants took to the trails for the 5K, 10K, and Ruck Run. Many carried Honor and Remember flags as they made their way through the course and toward the finish line. Ruck Run participants were encouraged to complete two sets of 22 honor push-ups and pull-ups to raise awareness for the 22 veterans lost to suicide each day. The races combined physical challenge with reflection, giving participants a meaningful way to remember the fallen and show support for those who continue to serve.

The event supported those currently serving local communities, with 100% of event proceeds donated to the Jasper and Huntingburg Police Departments.

“The strength of any police department is rooted in the support of its community. Community support means more than encouragement; it is a powerful reminder that the sacrifices made by our officers, service members, and their families are never forgotten. Every step taken in the Honor and Remember Run reflects the gratitude of a community that honors service, remembers sacrifice, and stands united behind those who protect others.”

— Chad Dick, Chief of Police, Jasper Police Department

“We are truly appreciative of this partnership. The impact of these funds will be felt not only within our department, but through the broader community we are so proud to serve. The Huntingburg Police Department is truly grateful for the opportunity to participate in this event to Honor and Remember those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice for this great country.”

— Bradley Kramer, Chief of Police, Huntingburg Police Department

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The event was made possible through the generosity of participants, volunteers, donors, and local sponsors, including Huntingburg Machine Works, the 2026 Honor Sponsor.

From the opening ceremony at the Fallen Heroes Memorial to the flags carried across the finish line, the sixth annual gathering reflected a shared commitment to remembering those who gave their lives, standing alongside the families who carry their legacies forward, and recognizing those who continue to serve.

About OFS
OFS is a family-owned contract furniture manufacturer dedicated to crafting experiences and products that contribute to places where people want to be. Founded in 1937, OFS provides furniture and logistics solutions for workplace, healthcare, education, lifestyle, government, and home office environments worldwide, offering seating, tables, casegoods, and open-plan products. OFS is based in Huntingburg, Indiana.

Media Contact
Brooke Lueken
blueken@ofs.com