In a remarkable display of endurance and dedication, Mike Gilmartin and his daughter Katie completed 46 miles in the blistering heat of Tennessee during the Mid-State Mile. This challenging event saw participants face temperatures up to 96 degrees, adding to the difficulty of the already daunting course. Mike’s journey to the Mid-State Mile was a testament to his unwavering commitment to honor his good friend and fallen service member, CPT John Hallett.
Training for the Mid-State Mile required exceptional dedication. "Mike deserves high praise for his unwavering consistency in training for the Mid-State Mile. His dedication and perseverance set a remarkable example," said Coach Liza. "He climbed and descended thousands of feet weekly on the treadmill, balancing intensive training with his work and family responsibilities. His commitment to support the wear blue community was evident in every step he took in training for this race."
Read more about the challenge here.
“After four years at West Point, John and Mike were fellow platoon leaders out of 1-21 Infantry Battalion at Schofield Barracks.” Lisa continues, “Weekends were marked by bbqs, beach trips, and unrivaled physical challenges. The affectionately known “Lieutenant Mafia” tackled and won Hawaii’s dirtiest race, the Swamp Romp, two years in a row. Seeing Mike continue to embrace the hardest of challenges in the most unique of circumstances is not only fire-you-up motivating, but a beautiful and needed connection to John’s grit in life and deeply valued friendships.”
Mike and Katie's determination to conquer the Murder Mile is a testament to Mike and John’s friendship. Carrying a guidon flag bearing John’s name, their participation not only honored CPT John Hallett but also raised awareness and contributions from donors for the wear blue mission, which unites and supports military members, veterans, their families, and Gold Star and surviving families.
Support Mike's mission and the wear blue community by donating today.
For the fallen. For the fighting. For the families.
Continue reading about the life-long friendship of CPT John Hallett and Mike.