Firefighters Walk for Vets with PTSD

Dozens of firefighters spent 12 hours walking from South Jersey to Philadelphia and back again to draw attention to veterans suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder.

Haddon Fire Company No. 1 Lt. Brian Poliafico led the 30-mile trek, which was part of the nationwide Carry the Fallen campaign, meant to increase awareness of vets and families dealing with PTSD, as well as veteran suicide.

An estimated 22 veterans commit suicide each day in the U.S., according to a report from the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Poliafico guided nearly 50 firefighters, police officers and military personnel from across South Jersey on the trip, which began in Haddonfield, headed through several other South Jersey cities, including Westmont, Collingswood and Camden, and then across the Ben Franklin Bridge into Philadelphia.

The group stopped at several historical landmarks in Philly before going back across the bridge and passing through several other New Jersey communities, including Gloucester City, Bellmawr, Mount Ephraim, Audobon, Haddon Heights and Barrington.

The multi-state walk raised about $15,000.

Contact Us