Runners gather in North Carolina to honor 9/11 victims

HOLLY SPRINGS, N.C. (WNCN) – As next week marks 23 years since the Sept. 11 attacks, walkers and runners laced up for the annual “9/11 Heroes Run” in Holly Springs on Saturday morning to remember the victims and heroes from that fateful day.

“It’s a pretty emotional and impactful day,” volunteer Meghan Phipps said. “Seeing everybody come together is my most favorite part.”

This year is the 17th annual “9/11 Heroes Run,” which takes place in 90 communities across the nation.

“It’s also about honoring our fallen,” Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) Leadership Programs Director, Dr. Camille Minor, said.

“I was actually active during 9/11,” Marine veteran Chad Johnson added.

The TMF is one of the nation’s leading veteran service organizations. Along with the U.S. Automobile Association (USAA), the event’s national sponsor, the organization salutes our military heroes for serving and protecting our country and communities every day.

“This race is particularly important to me because it allows me to sort of reflect, look and remember what we all felt like as a country on that day,” Johnson said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP.