Finding Connection on the Mile
How wear blue Changed My Journey
The story of how I found wear blue: run to remember is, in itself, an amazing reminder of how purpose can find you when you least expect it. My husband, CPL Joshua Harmon, was a Combat Medic who was killed in action in Iraq on August 22, 2007, in a helicopter crash. He was less than two months away from coming home after an already extended tour.
While he was deployed, Josh had taken up running and often talked about participating in races when he returned home. We had agreed to train and run together, but that dream ended when he didn’t make it back. To honor his life and sacrifice, I decided to take up running and complete that “mission” for him. Running became my way to live the life he no longer could and to feel closer to him while healing through the power of movement and community. It also allowed me to share his story, ensuring that others knew his name and carried his legacy forward.
In 2015, I discovered wear blue entirely by accident. I was running the Seattle Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon when I came across the tribute wear blue Mile. There, among the posters of fallen heroes, was Joshua’s name and face. It was completely unexpected and deeply emotional, a stark reminder of why I was on that course. Later, I learned that a fellow Medic who had served with Josh had arranged for his poster to be displayed. Her gesture is something I will always be grateful for because it started my journey with wear blue.
After the race, I immediately looked up wear blue and discovered the Gold Star Race Program (GSRP). The idea of running a marathon was daunting, and it took me some time to find the courage to apply. But when I did, I was accepted into the Seattle Cohort for 2017—fitting, since that city was where I first connected with the organization. While life’s challenges prevented me from running that particular race, I was later invited to join the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) Gold Star Race Program in 2017.
That opportunity turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It was at the MCM that I met my best friend and fellow widow, Mimi. The race brought us together through a shared grief born out of tragedy, and seven years later, we continue to make countless memories while running in honor of our husbands. In just a few weeks, Mimi and I will stand at another starting line together, ready to take more purposeful steps for Josh and her husband.
The wear blue Gold Star Race Program and community mean more to me than words can truly express. The miles are therapeutic, the camaraderie and shared understanding are unmatched, and the opportunity to honor our heroes is profoundly special.
So, when the Gold Star Race Program Alumni Reunion was announced, I didn’t hesitate to register. This event holds even deeper meaning for me because it is taking place in San Antonio—a place Josh cherished from his time there during AIT. He often talked about taking me to visit, and though he won’t be with me for my first trip, I am so grateful to experience it with my wear blue family, who understand the journey I’ve been on.
To any Gold Star family members who might be considering the Gold Star Race Program: I encourage you to take that leap. You never know where it will take you or who you will meet along the way. One thing is certain: the experience will change you forever.
This reunion is more than just a weekend; it’s a celebration of love, loss, resilience, and the strength of community. Together, we honor their lives by continuing to live ours with purpose. I can’t wait to see you in San Antonio.
– Kristin, Gold Star Wife & part of your wear blue Family
