Be the One Walk 2026

Description

Background

At its core, Be the One is the American Legion's top priority at the National level as well as at Veteran Organizations across DeKalb County. It is estimated that up to 22 veterans or service members take their lives each day. This walk is part of the American Legion's Mission and an initiative involving multiple communities that will help build awareness about the crisis, destigmatize asking for mental health support, and will introduce participants to resources available to veterans who are possibly struggling.

Walk Details

The walk, which is hosted by the DeKalb American Legion Post 66, will begin at 10:00 am with a welcome and overview. Activities are expected to end by 12:00 noon.

Registration/Check In will begin at 9:00 am. If you register on this site prior to the day of the walk, check-in will be as simple as us checking off your name. If you do not register online prior to the day of the walk, you can register on site on that day....bring your last-minute friends with you and please remember to register your children as well if they will be walking with you!

The walk is an outdoor route which is 2.2 miles (representing 22 lives/day) on sidewalks and asphalt pathways. There is a 1-mile circuit available as well for those who cannot or do not wish to walk the full 2.2 miles.

Other Activities are available if you do not wish to walk or are unable to walk but still want to attend to demonstrate support and increase awareness. Please register, even if not walking, to enjoy a beautiful day with friends and participate in other activities. Activities available on the patio and in the classrooms during that time frame will likely include Tai Chi, Chair Yoga, Labyrinth Meditation, and multiple exhibits for you to visit with information focusing on veteran mental health support and services.

Refreshments will be available prior to the walk...apples from the orchard, oranges, and granola bars, as well as the much needed morning coffee. Pizza and cookies donated by community businesses will also be available following the walk.

22 rocks will be carried in the walk, representing the loss of 22 lives/day to suicide, with a short ceremony at the end of the walk to remember those who lost their lives.

If you would like to dedicate a rock in memory of a veteran or soldier who has lost their life due to the struggle of PTSD, depression, sexual trauma, etc., please go to the "Dedicate a Rock" tab on this website and the rock will be carved with the name of that veteran and carried on the walk. There is no fee for this service .

Come walk with us—for yourself, for someone you love, for the belief that even in our darkest moments, there’s still light to move toward. If you can’t walk, come join us anyway, to show your support to those who are still fighting the battle.

Every step is a statement to our veterans who might be struggling: "You are not alone. And your life is worth fighting for."