Army veteran to race in #HonorMark 5K/10k after losing leg

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - The 8th annual #HonorMark race is taking over Daffin Park Saturday.

The #HonorMark organization was created after Marine Corps veteran turned local firefighter Mark Hummeldorf died at the age of 33.

For nearly a decade, the nonprofit has hosted the annual race to raise money for the families of first responders and veterans in need like Brian Harlow.

Harlow said, “I was no marathon runner, you know. I didn’t wake up every morning wanting to run a 5K.”

Now, running the distance is Harlow’s new mission.

Nearly two years ago, the Army veteran lost his leg during a mission in Ukraine, and he was brought to Germany to receive care and recover.

To relieve some of the financial stress, the #HonorMark organization chose the Harlow family to receive one of their donations.

Harlow said the money was instrumental in his healing process.

“I think the ability for my wife to be there by my side while I healed in Germany was tremendous. I think it helped her out a lot as well. It helped the family out. They covered a lot of the bills just so she could be there,” said Harlow.

After healing enough to travel, Harlow returned stateside, continuing to work on his strength and learning how to use prosthetics — a tedious and sometimes painful process.

On the road to recovery, Harlow never forgot how #HonorMark helped him land right back on his feet.

Harlow, who’s now physically able to run and fully equipped with a prosthetic for the sport, decided to participate in the 8th annual #HonorMark race.

He said he wants to give back to the organization that gave to him by participating and encouraging others to join him in Daffin Park Saturday.

“First responders, military veterans, you know, we live a life of servitude, and I think it really comes down to just giving back to your local community,” said Harlow. “And it feels really good being able to give back, you know, more than you’re given.”

Harlow also works with the Order of Saint Lazarus — an international humanitarian organization.

The veteran was able to connect #HonorMark with the Order, which ultimately became one of race’s title sponsors.

If you want to run alongside Brian Harlow in Saturday’s #HonorMark race at 8 a.m., there’s still time to sign up. Online registration closes Friday at 11:59 p.m.