On October 22, 2022, veterans and military service members will take to the streets of Fort Walton Beach for the annual Irreverent Warriors Silkies Hike.
Veteran and military participants will hike anywhere from 8-14 miles, some carrying heavy packs, some in wheelchairs, but all in a spirit of support and camaraderie with a singular mission – to eliminate veteran suicide.
- Veterans normally hike wearing only their combat boots and “Silkies”, traditional military physical training shorts full of nostalgia that help promote an environment of humor and camaraderie.
Irreverent Warriors, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to bring veterans together using humor and camaraderie to improve mental health and prevent veteran suicide.
According to Irreverent Warriors, at least 22 veterans and military service members commit suicide daily. Although this statistic has become very well-known, it is often considered a gross underestimation of the reality, according to the non-profit.
“Irreverent Warriors has stood up to fit an unmet demand by introducing its members and participants to a life-saving network of support through their events and community,” they wrote in a press release. “Everyone fights their battles and heals from trauma differently, but one thing is consistent; no one should have to do it alone”.
The organization is inviting ALL of our area Veterans and Military Service Members to hike in this event! They also ask family members, friends, and the community to join them at their various stops.
- “Please cheer and/or honk if you pass our hikers on the route as they deeply appreciate your support,” they said.
The event kicks off with registration at 8:30am and start time of 9:30am at The Island Resort on Okaloosa Island.
Hikers will be stopping at multiple locations throughout the hike for food, drinks and camaraderie including G.I. Jade’s Tiki Bar, Chester Pruitt Park, and KC’s Sandbar and Grill.