A Community Defined
When you look up "community" in the Oxford Dictionary, the first definition refers to a group of people living in the same place. But the second definition goes deeper, describing it as a feeling of fellowship with others, born from shared attitudes, interests, and goals. This deeper meaning captures the essence of wear blue: run to remember. This community unites runners, walkers, veterans, service members and their families, Gold Star and Surviving families, volunteers, and supporters to honor the service and sacrifice of the American military, creating a powerful network of support that transcends physical boundaries.
The journey of wear blue began with simple yet profound acts of remembrance. In the early days, a small group of military spouses would gather to run, carrying with them the memories of their fallen loved ones. These runs became a therapeutic way to cope with loss and regain a sense of purpose. As more people joined, the movement grew beyond its initial circle, drawing in military families and civilians alike, united by a shared commitment to honoring the fallen.
Over time, wear blue: run to remember evolved into a robust community, with five distinct programs that touch lives annually across the nation. These programs are more than just events; they are lifelines for military families and the communities that support them. The strength of wear blue lies in its ability to bridge the civilian-military divide, foster wellness, and create a deep sense of belonging.
Military life presents unique challenges—frequent relocations, deployments, and the stress of separation—that can strain mental health and erode social support networks. For military families, the sense of isolation and disconnection can be overwhelming. But within the wear blue community, no one stands alone. Together, members navigate the ups and downs of military life, finding strength in shared experiences and honoring those who have given their all.
One of the most powerful aspects of wear blue communities is their ability to lift each other up in times of need. The story of the Ashland, Kentucky community is a testament to this. When Michelle and Michael Moore lost their son on 19 March 2022, their world was shattered. Not long after, they found solace in the Ashland, Kentucky wear blue community.
The Ashland community welcomed Michelle and Michael with open arms. “Our community has become a ‘Blue Family!’” said Sandy Mers, Ashland Community Run Leader. “We truly embrace the spirit of honoring and supporting, and we will always lift each other up.”
This was especially evident in the community’s recent display of support for Michelle as she completed her first full marathon in San Francisco as part of the Gold Star Race Program, in honor of her son, Cpl. Jacob M. Moore. The entire Ashland community rallied behind her, posting miles and messages of support on their community page, tracking her progress, and cheering her on every step of the way.
On Saturday mornings, wear blue members gather for their Circle of Remembrance, where they call out the names of the fallen. “That Circle of Remembrance means a lot,” Michelle Moore shared. “Reading and calling those names out, those precious people. It’s like you’re giving back to them a little by calling out their name.”
“To know somebody, a total stranger in another state, is calling out our son’s name means a lot to me,” added Michael Moore.
The wear blue community stands as a beacon of hope, offering a place to heal, grieve, cope, find strength, and give strength. Each step taken in a wear blue run is a reminder that, while members may face loss and hardship, they are never alone. Together, they honor the service and sacrifice of the American military, build resilience, and create a legacy of remembrance that will endure for generations to come.
Run. Honor. Belong.
