Give2Those Road Race Events Honoring our Nations Heroes
Why We Run, Walk or Ruck.... The brave response made by our military and first responders every single day is a reminder to Americans the invaluable service these courageous men and women provide to our communities, nation and the world, now it's our turn to Give2Those Who... Serve, Save, Protect and Sacrifice!
Register Today and be apart of the Journey Honoring Our Nation's Heroes
Freedom Flag 5k-Horn Pond Woburn, MA
The Freedom Flag Memorial 5k takes place at Horn Pond in Woburn, Massachusetts late October. This event brings together Military members, First Responders, and Civilians to show respect for those who serve and to commemorate the memory of Stoneham Firefighter, Army Veteran Cpl. David Atherton, and Woburn Resident Kevin McDonald.
The Purpose Behind Our Running, Walking, Rucking: Paying Tribute and Commemorating Brave Heroes from Woburn & Stoneham, as well as all individuals who have dedicated themselves and made sacrifices for our Nation and the Communities they served. In Loving Memory of Cpl. David Atherton and Kevin McDonald, a Resident of Woburn.
Cpl. David Atherton, 23, was Born in Winchester on September 25, 1992, he was the son of the late Richard E. and Kathleen A. (Noonan) Atherton.David was a graduate of Stoneham High School, Class of 2011 and Northshore Community College. David enlisted in the Army National Guard in 2011. David was a part of the 972nd Military Police Company. David was also a Stoneham Firefighter. He strived to serve his country and community. David died on June 28, 2016, in his hometown of Stoneham Massachusetts after a tragic accident.
Kevin McDonald, 20, born in Winchester, Massachusetts passed away on October 24, 2017 after a tragic motorcycle accident. Kevin was the son of Roland J. and Cheryl A. (Wilson) McDonald of Woburn. Kevin was a loving, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend.
Both David and Kevin touched so many lives, they were active in living a healthier lifestyle and they embraced life, liberty and their freedom, they are both forever missed.
Along the route is the Hometown Hero Half Mile which pays tribute to those who serve and to Stoneham Firefighter Cpl. David Atherton & Woburn Resident Kevin McDonald.
We will also pay tribute to those who lost their lives due to serve to their country and community within Woburn and Stoneham.
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Heroes Live Forever Memorial 5k
The 3rd Annual Heroes Live Forever Memorial 5k stands as a poignant and meaningful event, where the Templeton community comes together to honor the legacy of a beloved local hero, Tracy Ferrazza. As an EMT who dedicated her life to serving and protecting the residents of Templeton, Tracy's unwavering commitment to public safety and selfless spirit touched the hearts of all who knew her. This 5k run and walk provides a powerful opportunity for Firefighters, Police, EMS professionals, and neighboring departments to unite in paying tribute to Tracy's memory, while also fostering a deep sense of camaraderie and community among the first responders who continue her vital work. The flat, fast-paced course is designed to accommodate runners and walkers of all skill levels, making it an inclusive event that welcomes competitive athletes as well as those seeking a more leisurely stroll. Children and families are also encouraged to participate, reinforcing the event's role as a unifying celebration of the Templeton community and the noble public servants who safeguard it. Through this annual memorial, the memory of Tracy Ferrazza and the profound impact she had on the town will live on, inspiring future generations of first responders to follow in her footsteps of courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication.
The Reason Why We Run: In Memory of Tracy Ann (Massalski) Ferazza
Tracy Ann (Massalski) Ferrazza, 52, passed away tragically on the evening of January 17, 2021, due to injuries sustained in a car accident. We honor her memory and celebrate her life. Born on July 26, 1968, in Fitchburg, Tracy was the daughter of Sandra (Tyler) Massalski and the late John Joseph Massalski. She graduated from No. Middlesex High School in 1986 and went on to complete her education at Mt. Wachusett Community College and Henry's Hairdressing School.
Tracy resided in Templeton for many years. Tracy dedicated her career to helping others. She worked as a personal care assistant and life coach for Mitchell Borque of Templeton, as well as caring for multiple children at ABA Services in Fitchburg. She also served as an EMT for the Town of Templeton for 11 years. Tracy's determination led her to participate in the 113th Boston Marathon.
Furthermore, she regularly volunteered to distribute food baskets to veterans in need. In addition to her mother, Tracy is survived by her two sons, Tyler M. Ferrazza and Nathan A. Ferrazza, both of Templeton. She also leaves behind her two brothers, Mark Massalski and his wife Miriam of Fallbrook, CA, and Keith Massalski and his wife Sarah of Townsend. Tracy will be dearly missed by her four nephews, Dylan, Travis, Alex, and Andrew, as well as her two uncles, Arthur "Butch" Tyler and his wife Gail, and Joseph Massalski and his wife Geri. She is also survived by her two aunts, Muriel Tyler and Marcia Massalski, and numerous cousins. Tracy was preceded in death by her brother Michael, as well as her grandparents, Pearl and Arthur Tyler, and Joseph and Hedy Massalski.
Tracy's legacy will forever be one of kindness, selflessness, and love. She touched the lives of many as a devoted mother, daughter, wife, sister, aunt, cousin, niece, and friend. Even in the briefest encounters, Tracy's spirit will continue to inspire all those who had the privilege of crossing her path.