WASHINGTON — The retired Marine from Vienna, Virginia, who’s running a month of marathons to raise money for wounded warriors, is nearing a Veterans Day finish line.
“He’s starting to show a few signs of wear and tear. His back is a little bit sore. He took a tumble in Nashville the other day because it was super slick and slippery after all the rain,” Pam Jones, the wife of Rob Jones said.
Jones spoke with WTOP during run 29 in Charlotte, North Carolina. “Rob’s out running as we speak. He’s just churning away the miles,” she said.
Jones is running to show support for and to help raise money for three groups that helped with his recovery after losing both legs in an explosion in Afghanistan. They are the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes, Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, and Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
Jones’ 31 marathons in 31 days has consisted of 26.2 mile runs in each city in the mornings before moving on to the next day’s challenge.
On the observed federal holiday of Veteran’s Day on Friday, Jones 30th run is taking place at Camden Yards in Baltimore which is especially poignant. He’s a huge Oriole’s fan. Friday also marks the 242nd birthday of the Marine Corps.
Jones’ 31st and final run on the National Mall Saturday will consist of multiple loops beginning at the Lincoln Memorial passing each of the war memorials. Jones plans to run four loops of roughly 1 and 1/2 hour blocks of time separated by 20 minute intervals of rest.
Supporters are invited to join Jones at the Lincoln Memorial shortly before 7 a.m. when he’ll make brief remarks. Pam Jones said it’s not necessary to sign up to run with her husband; you can show up any time during the day. Jones is expected to continue running until about 1:30 p.m. or 2 p.m.
Pam Jones asks that even if you can’t join Rob on Veteran’s Day to please have him and other vets in your thoughts.
“Because that’s a day that we should all be celebrating and feeling grateful for the sacrifices that people make,” Jones said.
