“Tillman’s legacy is one of selflessness and caring for humanity. He made the biggest sacrifice anyone could and that in itself is inspiring and reminds us the impact one individual can have on the world.” – Courtney Gardunio, Referral Management Manager, TriWest
Twenty years ago, family and friends of Pat Tillman came together to create the Pat Tillman Foundation to honor his legacy after he was killed in Afghanistan serving in the U.S. Army.
Today, the Foundation empowers members of the military and Veteran communities to become leaders committed to service beyond self, like Pat Tillman.
The Pat Tillman Foundation organized the very first Pat’s Run in 2005 with 5,500 participants, showing their respect and honor for Pat Tillman. Today, Pat’s Run has grown to host nearly 30,000 athletes honoring Tillman’s legacy, the military and Veteran communities. TriWest has been a proud supporter and sponsor of the event since 2006.
Glenn Gray, Vice President of Military & Veteran Engagement, remembers the very first Pat’s Run and is in awe of how much it has grown over the years. “When TriWest came on as the co-sponsor that second year, there was an idea that the event was going to grow in popularity, but I don’t think anyone expected it go from about 7,500 people in 2006 to over 20,000 in just a few years,” Glenn shared.
The event is attended by active duty Service members, National Guard, Reservists, Veterans, military and Veteran family members, and others showing their support. For TriWest, Pat’s Run is an opportunity to connect with those we serve.
“TriWest’s participation with Pat’s Run will continue to be important as we move forward with our existing Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) work and soon move back into supporting TRICARE beneficiaries,” he said. “It’s also a great opportunity to connect TriWest staff with each other, whether it’s before the event starts or while on the course.”
This year, 24 employees participated to honor the men and women who continue to protect our nation.
Courtney Gardunio, Referral Management Manager, participated in Pat’s Run for the first time this year. “I was aware that it was a big annual run, but I was not expecting the number of people who turned out,” she said. “I was stunned!”
Her favorite part of attending this year’s run was participating with her daughter and creating a core memory for both of them. Aside from that, she shared, “The most enjoyable part for me was seeing the unity and number of people that came together to support something meaningful and positive. With so much going on in our everyday lives, and some of the negativity we see and hear about, it’s refreshing to see people come together for a good cause.”
While she doesn’t have a direct connection to the military, Courtney has always had a deep respect and appreciation for all Service members. When reflecting on Pat Tillman’s legacy she said, “Tillman’s legacy is one of selflessness and caring for humanity. He made the biggest sacrifice anyone could and that in itself is inspiring and reminds us the impact one individual can have on the world.”
She continued, “I think if each of us took a piece of his legacy and showed the same values toward others, we would all have a better quality of life.”
Like Courtney, Geovanni (Geo) Alfaro, Sr. Business Analyst, participated in the run for the first time. “Pat’s Run has been on my list of things to do for some time now,” he shared. “It was a pleasant surprise to see so many families participating together. I wasn’t expecting so many. Pat’s Run is definitely a family event.”
Geo’s favorite part of the event was seeing so many people coming together for a good purpose. He explained, “My favorite part was seeing thousands of people come together to honor a man who knew sacrifice.”
Pat Tillman dedicated his life to serving and paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect our country’s freedom. TriWest is honored to support the Pat Tillman Foundation and its mission in uniting and empowering the military and Veteran communities.