The 10th Annual Paddle for Heroes Memorial Paddle officially launched early Sunday morning, June 7, from Memorial Park in Mount Vernon. The six‑day, 160‑mile journey honors fallen soldiers while raising awareness for veterans, first responders, and active duty service members.
Before paddlers took to the water, Mayor Matthew Starr presented a proclamation declaring June 7 as Paddle for Heroes Day.
Mayor Matt Starr supported the event | City of Mount Vernon
The send‑off featured the Mount Vernon Fire Department’s engine and flag over the bridge, a powerful show of support that city leaders thanked for adding impact to the launch.
Credit: City of Mount Vernon
Organized by Paddle for Heroes, the route follows the Kokosing, Walhonding, and Muskingum river systems, with checkpoints in Warsaw, Coshocton, Dresden, Zanesville, McConnelsville, Beverly, and Lowell. The journey will conclude at the Ohio Riverfront Levee in Marietta. Spectators were able to view the team at several points along the opening stretch, including Lower Gambier Road, Laymon Road Bridge, and Big Run Road Bridge.
The memorial paddle is dedicated to PFC Ryan A. Martin of Mount Vernon and 1st Lieutenant Charles L. Wilkins of Columbus, both of whom served with A Company, 216th Engineer Battalion. On August 20, 2004, they were killed in action during Operation Iraqi Freedom when a roadside blast struck their convoy’s lead Humvee in Samarra, Iraq.
Beyond its physical demands, the paddle serves as a space for reflection. Participants face grueling daily stretches of up to 30 miles, often spending 12 hours on the river. Community presence at checkpoints provides crucial morale support, reinforcing the event’s mission of remembrance and resilience. Organizers noted that the paddle is not only a test of endurance but also a living tribute, connecting families, veterans, and supporters through shared purpose and reflection.
Updates on the team’s progress will be shared throughout the week on Paddle for Heroes’ Facebook page. Organizers encourage residents to follow the journey online and continue showing support as the paddlers advance toward Marietta.
City leaders expressed gratitude to the crews, volunteers, and supporters who made the launch possible, emphasizing that the event is not only a tribute to two fallen heroes but also a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and the importance of community connection.
