West Point Cadet Plans 24-Hour Run at Yukon High

David Swanson, a 2006 Yukon High School graduate and current cadet at the United States Military Academy at West Point, plans a 24-hour run around the Yukon High School track to raise dollars for the Wounded Warrior Project, a non-profit organization that supports soldiers wounded in the war in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Calling his project the 24 Hour Brigade, ultramarathoner Swanson invites area runners, walkers, mothers with strollers -- virtually anyone -- to join him in his effort to raise money and support America's heroes with the Wounded Warrior Project. He is also soliciting sponsors to pledge dollars per mile that he and others run during this 24-hour period, from 5:00 pm on Friday, March 20 to 5:00 pm on Saturday, March 21, 2009.

"I love America, and I love to run," said Swanson. "I have been impressed for some time now that I should use my love of running and ability to run long distances to benefit the young men who volunteered to join the fight for freedom around the world, and have paid the price in that fight.

"I've found the Wounded Warrior Project, and am excited to support that cause through this effort," he continued.

Swanson says he can't reach his goal by himself, though.

"I have an audacious goal of raising $10,000 for the WWP," Swanson said. "In order to do that, we'll need to enlist the help of anyone and everyone who appreciates the sacrifice of our armed forces, and who can put one foot in front of the other.

"Anyone can do this, whether it's one mile or one hundred miles."

"I'm asking Oklahomans from all walks of life to enlist sponsors -- no amount per mile is too small -- and join me on the Yukon High School track to support our wounded warriors," Swanson says.

Those who want to participate or sponsor Swanson or another runner can enlist for this mission here.