Running to remember: How Boeing partner helps veterans find new mission
Boeing commits $8.4 million to veterans charities worldwide in 2021
Volunteers participate in a service project with The Mission Continues. Boeing photo
On Sept. 19, Emily Festa, Boeing Government Operations analyst, joined dozens of other runners at the 9/11 Heroes Run in Annapolis, Maryland, with one shared purpose: honor and remember the sacrifices of the heroes of the Sept. 11 attacks and the wars that followed.
“Running alongside veterans, their families, Travis Manion supporters and other community members was my favorite part,” said Festa. “The energy and love that filled the course made the experience one I will never forget.”
The run began as a short memorial run to honor Marine 1st Lt. Travis Manion, who was killed in action in Iraq in 2007 while trying to save several wounded fellow Marines and Iraqi Army counterparts. Now, Travis Manion Foundation, one of Boeing’s veterans service organization partners, hosts 9/11 runs in cities worldwide, both to honor and celebrate the courage and bravery of those who have served and to thank first responders and military service members.
“I believe it’s important to honor our service members and the sacrifices they have made for our country. Travis Manion is an incredible organization,” said Festa, who is also a member of the Boeing Veteran Engagement Team (BVET) business resource group.
In 2021, Boeing invested $8.4 million in 98 charitable organizations supporting skills development and training for veterans and their spouses transitioning out of military service, as well as recovery and rehabilitation programs for veterans that focus on post-traumatic stress and suicide prevention.
As co-chair of the Potomac Region Employee Volunteer Council, Festa has also participated in many other veteran-focused volunteer opportunities with Boeing community partners.
“Being able to interact with veterans and their families really puts into perspective for me the importance of giving back and supporting our veterans community,” she said. “There are so many ways you can get involved.”
Travis Manion Foundation and other Boeing community partners Adaptive Training Foundation and The Mission Continues are featured in Boeing’s latest Veterans Day campaign, Our Duty Is to You, which highlights the incredible work Boeing partners are doing to empower the veteran community. Click here to learn more.
