Event Description

Join the War Memorial Center for their First Annual Operation 5K: Run, Walk, & Roll on August 29, 2021. Starting and ending at the War Memorial with the majority of the route on pathways throughout Veteran’s Park, this course is wheelchair accessible. We have partnered with Paralyzed Veterans of America-Wisconsin Chapter to honor the sacrifice of veterans who are now in wheelchairs and create this race on the Milwaukee lakefront. The race will begin with competitive wheelchair racers first; competitive runners will follow second with all other walkers and rollers at the rear.

Dedicated on Veterans Day 1957 and designated a Milwaukee Landmark in 1974, The War Memorial Center is the stunning architectural achievement of renowned Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, whose work also included the St. Louis Gateway Arch, New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport and Dulles International Airport in Washington, D.C. Most importantly, Saarinen’s design and the memorials throughout the facility stand as a lasting testament to those who lost their lives defending the freedoms that we all cherish. In addition to standing as a testament to those whose made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, the War Memorial Center is a hub for veteran activities. We work to ensure each veteran knows their service is appreciated as we inspire patriotism in our youth and honor the 3,481 men and women from Milwaukee County who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We provide over $120,000 in services each year to veterans and veteran service organizations.