It's not easy to run a 5K race but it's a lot easier to help a local Marine.
J.B. Kerns was injured in Afghanistan last year. He lost three of his limbs.
On Sunday, 200 people ran or walked a 5K race to help build Kerns a custom home in Patrick County.
"Community support has been incredible," says Mark Hudzik with the Blue Ridge Veterans Celebration, "People just coming in without even asking for donations of water, of gatorade, food for the event, dollars."
It only took 17 minutes to get a winner. Steve Crowder finished in first place.
"There could not be you know a better cause," says Crowder, "I was real happy to come out here and support the cause."
One man logged more miles this weekend than anyone here. Lt. Robert Vogt is a New York City firefighter who drove to Roanoke just for this event.
"I was just very impressed with the J.B. Kerns story," says Lt. Vogt, "You know the fact that he was 11, 12 years old when 9/11 happened and his decision to volunteer to fight for our country."
Lt. Vogt's uncle died on 9/11 and an organization named in his memory, Tunnel to Towers is building Kerns' new home. According to its website, they've raised 21% of the funds needed.
"Seems like this part of Virginia is doing as much as they can for him," says Lt. Vogt.
Kerns also ran the 5K race. He says he appreciates everybody's help.
"Yeah it's all great," says Kerns, "It's nice to know that there's people out there that support us."
It was the first 5K race by the Blue Ridge Veterans Celebration and judging by the crowd it may not be the last.
Sunday's event raised $10,000. Most of that money will go to help J.B. Kerns.
