The City of Mount Vernon OH announced that the 10th Annual Memorial Paddle, organized by Paddle For Heroes, will begin this Sunday, June 7 at 7 a.m. at Memorial Park.
Participants will embark on a 160-mile, six-day journey down to Marietta to honor the resilience, service, and memory of the nation’s veterans, first responders, and fallen service members. This year marks the event’s tenth anniversary and is dedicated to local heroes PFC Ryan A. Martin and 1st Lieutenant Charles L. Wilkins.
Organizers said the paddlers face a significant physical challenge during their expedition and encouraged community support for those taking part in the event. The opening ceremony will include a mayoral proclamation before participants launch into the Kokosing River.
Those unable to attend the launch are invited to see participants further downriver at Lower Gambier Road at 8 a.m., Laymon Road Bridge at 8:30 a.m., or Big Run Road Bridge at 9:15 a.m.
The event aims to bring together community members in recognition of service and sacrifice while marking an important milestone for Paddle For Heroes.
