For the past six years, the Town of North Hempstead employee and super athlete Freddy Rodriguez has completed a 50-mile run in honor of the late Navy SEAL Lt. Michael Murphy and those who were lost during Operation Red Wings on June 28, 2005.
Rodriguez, a resident of Carle Place, has done this run because he says he was inspired by Murphy’s story and wanted to honor him and those who also served with him. All proceeds go to the Lt. Michael Murphy Scholarship Foundation, the Lone Survivor Foundation, Navy SEAL Foundation and Special Operation Warriors Foundation.
Rodriguez will begin his 50-mile run on June 21 at 7 p.m. in New York City and run across Long Island until he reaches his destination in Ronkonkoma the following day at about 8 a.m., just in time for another four-mile race which is held each year in honor of Murphy.
Town Supervisor Judi Bosworth said “Freddie’s dedication to his training and to this run in honor of Lt. Murphy is truly inspiring. As always, all of us in the Town of North Hempstead who work with him wish him a safe and successful journey.”
“This being the seventh year of the run, I’ve had a chance to expand the team to 24 runners and I am aiming to raise over $10,000 for these charities and in the men of Operation Red Wings’ memory,” said Rodriguez. “I am truly thankful to all those who join me for the journey overnight, as well as those who help shape the run into the success it has been. It’s all a team effort and it’s to make sure no one ever forgets the ultimate sacrifice Murph and his men made.”
Rodriguez and his running companions will be escorted by the NYPD, Floral Park Fire Department, Mineola Fire Department, Nassau County Police Department and the Suffolk County Police Department. For a map of his route, visit: https://grouprev.com/50milesformurphFR
For photo purposes, Rodriguez and 16 other runners will set out on his journey on June 21 from El Barrios Bravest Fire Department, Engine 53/Ladder 43, 1836 3rd Ave. in Manhattan. They are located right next to the NYPD 23rd Precinct. They will arrive at 5 p.m. and start the run at 7 p.m.
For more information, contact the communications office at 516-869-7794.
Submitted by the Town of North Hempstead.
