ANNAPOLIS, Md. — A former member of the U.S. Army is running in Anne Arundel County, to give back to those who have lost their lives while, or after, serving their country.
WMAR-2 News caught up with Francisco Portillo as he ran along Cape Saint Claire Road.
He was carrying a 75-pound backpack, along with an American flag.
Portillo said he wanted to feel pain as he ran, as a way to honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
“I'll do it for those who couldn't. You know, do it for those who can’t and that’s to include the 22 vets that lose their lives unfortunately to suicide every day.”
The 75-pounds also represented the weight military members carry in their ruck sacks or the emotional toll the military takes on them.
