Irreverent Warriors Silkies Hike – Key West Veteran and Military Support Event Improves Mental Health and Saves Lives in Unconventional Fashion

On December 16, 2023 Veterans and military service members will take to the streets of Fort Walton Beach, FL for the annual Irreverent Warriors Silkies Hike. During the 2023 season, IW events will bring thousands of veterans together across the United States.  Veteran and military participants 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 (EIN: 47-4789126) whose mission is to: bring veterans together using humor and camaraderie to improve mental health and prevent veteran suicide.  According to numerous studies, including a commonly referenced VA Suicide Data Report conducted in 2012, 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.  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. “Everyone fights their battles and heals from trauma differently, but one thing is consistent; no one should have to do it alone”.
 
We ask ALL of our Veterans and Military Service Members to hike with us in this event!  We also ask family members, friends, and the community for their support and invite them to register as a volunteer or join us at the stops. Please cheer and/or honk if you pass our hikers on the route as they deeply appreciate your support.
 
Who: Veterans and Military Service Members (Active Duty, Reservists, and National Guard)
What:  Irreverent Warriors Silkies Hike – Key West
When: December 16, 2023, Registration begins at 0730 and step off at 0900
Where: (Start point Hurricane Hole Bar and Grill, Start point Address) We will be stopping at Southernmost VFW, Truman Waterfront Park, Southernmost point and cafe, Heroes Bar, and Dantes throughout the hike for food, drinks and camaraderie
 
Register on Eventbrite @ Irreverent Warriors Silkies Hike - Key West, FL Tickets, Sat, Dec 16, 2023 at 8:00 AM | Eventbrite
 
Press Availability: YES!  Press is encouraged to attend - Coordinators will be available for comments. For on-air and pre-event interviews, or more information about the event, please contact:
●       Local Coordinator - Chad Salinero - 306-849-2608
●       Hike Support Coordinator - Jess Forsythe -305-394-7184
  
More information: 
Irreverent Warriors Silkies Hike – Key West
Event link found on Facebook at – https://www.facebook.com/groups/200592931200284/?mibextid=oMANbw      
To register or donate go to Irreverent Warriors Silkies Hike - Key West, FL Tickets, Sat, Dec 16, 2023 at 8:00 AM | Eventbrite
For more information on Irreverent Warriors:  http://www.irreverentwarriors.com/
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