Running for Jon

Julie Sperry has always been a runner. Her late husband, SGT Jon M Skogen, was not. Jon was the lifter in their marriage and “absolutely hated running.” He only ran when the Army required it.

Jon would ask Julie, “Don’t you ever get bored of running?” And her answer never changed.

“Running is my happy place. It’s where I can clear my mind and just be.”

Jon may not have understood her love of running, but he supported it. This October, Julie will take on her first marathon in his honor.

Jon was a 68W Combat Medic in the US Army and a devoted husband, loving son, and caring brother. Julie remembers his infectious smile, great sense of humor, and adventurous spirit. He loved riding his motorcycle, working out, playing video games, and listening to EDM music. 

He was also someone who cared deeply about the Soldiers he served alongside. “He was the type who would give you the shirt off his back without a second thought, never asking for anything in return.” 

Jon died on 4 November 2019. In the years that followed, Julie spent a lot of time feeling isolated in her grief and believing that no one could truly understand what she was experiencing.

Her connection to wear blue: run to remember began unexpectedly. A military friend invited her to volunteer as a flag bearer during the Olympia Marathon. Julie didn't realize at first that she would be volunteering with wear blue.

Then she saw the Faces of the Fallen along the course. “As I stood along the course holding a flag and saw the faces and stories of our fallen heroes displayed on posters, I realized there was a community of people who understood the profound impact of military service and loss.”

For the first time in a long while, Julie felt that she had found a place where she belonged.

“Saying ‘yes’ to that opportunity became a turning point in my healing journey, and I will always be grateful that I was invited be to be a part of it.”

Now, Julie is preparing to run 26.2 miles as part of the Gold Star & Survivor Endurance Program.

Training has meant making space for running alongside a demanding career in healthcare. Julie serves as the Administrative Director at a military treatment facility, where she supports nearly 300 employees and oversees operations for 15 outpatient specialty care clinics.

Her training schedule has taken her across six states and three countries, with miles logged in Washington, Oregon, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Alaska, Canada, Japan – and even aboard a cruise ship.

“If that means setting my alarm for a 4:00 a.m. run, then that's exactly what I'll do.” The physical challenge of a marathon is only part of what Julie is taking on. She describes the race as a mental challenge, too – one that will require her to continue showing up when she is tired, busy, or unmotivated.

And for Julie, the commitment itself is part of the tribute. “Every training run is an opportunity to honor my late husband, SGT Jon Skogen, and the life and service he gave to our country.”

She also sees the marathon as a way to remain connected to the Gold Star and Survivor community and to the people who understand the particular pain of losing someone who served.

This October, Julie will stand among them and run in Jon's memory. The woman who has always loved running will take on the distance carrying his story with her along the way.

“Running in Jon's memory reminds me that love endures beyond loss.”