An annual race in honor of first responders to the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks is returning next month, maintaining a longstanding tradition in Arlington.
The Arlington Police, Fire, Sheriff and ECC 9/11 Memorial 5K will take place on Sept. 5 at 6 p.m., with a starting line outside the DoubleTree Hotel in Crystal City (300 Army Navy Drive).
This year will mark 25 years since the attacks, which killed 2,996 people, including 184 passengers, workers and civilians who died when American Airlines flight 77 struck the Pentagon.
“There are tons and tons of different small races that happen in this area every year, but this one, I think, is special — number one because 9/11 happened right here, and number two, it’s just maintaining that tradition and bringing the community together,” Arlington County Fire captain and race director Josh Milfeit told ARLnow.
New this year, the race will include a 9/11 responders category for runners who were involved in the response to 9/11. Milfeit also intends to present a ceremonial donation to the planned Pentagon 9/11 education center.
The 5K was founded by three Arlington police officers: retired Capt. Matt Smith, Detective Dan Borriello and Sgt. Sean Bryson. All of the officers worked as first responders at the Pentagon after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
The race has since raised over $1 million for 9/11-related charities, according to its website.
“This is a great opportunity on the 25th anniversary to do a donation in person at the race,” Milfeit said.
Runners will end the 5K loop going past the section of the Pentagon struck in the Sept. 11 attacks. They will pass by posters with the names of victims killed that day and finish the race underneath a giant American flag hung between fire trucks.
Post-race, the event will offer a popular beer tent, along with live DJs and food trucks with pizza and Italian ice.
Organizers are expecting between 1,600 and 2,000 runners this year. Registration is open online until the day of the event for participants of all ages.
“I think it’s vitally important, especially for the youth,” Milfeit said of the race. “They weren’t even born yet. … One of the biggest things that I do — I bring my kids. My kids run it. I just want them to see and understand what this did and how much this changed everything.”
