Beyond the Blue: How a Circle of Remembrance Reached an Entire Camp
In early November, nine Gold Star and Survivor Endurance Program (GSSEP) Alumni from wear blue: run to remember traveled to the Band of Runners Trail Camp. During the program’s close-out call, Jessica Alley, Gold Star and Survivor Endurance Program Coordinator shared, “Their voices still carried the unmistakable joy of a week filled with community, challenge, and profound connection.”
For these athletes, the camp was far more than a series of runs. It became a shared space for survivors, veterans, first responders, and civilians to come together, sharing trails, meals, bunks, stories, and moments of genuine understanding. The experience was a powerful reminder that the heart of wear blue extends well beyond those who wear the shirt. Its mission resonates wherever its people show up.
With Tara Strassburg, Director of Running & Training, and Lee Yoneyama (Command Sergeant Major, US Army (Retired), Chief Operating Officer, present as wear blue representatives, supporters, and friends, the GSSEP Alumni found themselves not only welcomed, but deeply woven into the fabric of the camp. Their presence and the spirit they carried became part of what made the week meaningful for everyone.
Their reflections from the call painted a picture of transformation, healing, and renewed purpose:
The community felt special, not only among those who shared similar loss, but also with individuals whose experiences were entirely different yet equally profound.
Trail running reignited something soul-deep; several noted that while road running has its place, trails truly nourish the spirit.
Participants described the entire week as “amazing from start to finish.”
The Circle of Remembrance was particularly impactful. Some campers had never spoken aloud the names of their loved ones. Witnessing wear blue’s tradition of honoring the fallen through spoken names offered a moment of courage and connection that resonated across the group.
Hearing about the running and healing journeys of others was deeply encouraging.
Several alumni shared that their confidence had grown—thanks in part to the simple but powerful presence of fellow campers on both sides.
“Growth in discomfort is such a thing,” one reflected with gratitude.
Camp leaders were praised for ensuring everyone connected and no one stayed isolated.
The depth of connection surprised many. Living, eating, running, and resting together created a level of closeness beyond what some had experienced even within their GSSEP cohorts.
Many left feeling empowered to sign up for future races they may not have had the courage to attempt before.
What stood out most was how the Circle of Remembrance reached beyond the wear blue community. It offered a shared language of honor and healing, something universal, not limited to the organization’s members. The act of speaking a name aloud, of claiming remembrance in community, created a ripple felt by the entire camp.
The GSSEP Alumni carried the mission of wear blue with them into this new setting, and its impact was unmistakable.
wear blue is proud of these athletes and their presence, their vulnerability, their commitment to honoring the fallen and supporting one another. Gratitude extends to Band of Runners for welcoming them, and to Tara for being the bridge that brought this opportunity to life.
Be sure to stay tuned in to the wear blue community for future opportunities to engage, grow, and carry the mission forward.
