Binghamton to Host Returning Warrior 10 Miler

Binghamton's Returning Warrior 10-Miler, sponsored by the Broome Country STOP-DWI Program, hopes to raise awareness about service members’ transitions from the dangers of war-zone driving to the new risks they face on public highways once they come back home.

"Our military men and women make tremendous sacrifices to protect our freedoms and it's important that we provide them with the resources and support they need upon returning to civilian life," said Broome County Executive Debbie Preston. "The returning Warrior 10 & 5 Miler will bring runners of all skill levels together at Otsiningo Park for a fun day of recreation to support our veterans."

Car accidents have become the leading cause of death among veterans in early years after returning from deployment, according to the Veterans Association. According to the Returning Warrior Study by USAA, there is a 13% increase of at-fault accidents for troops within the first six months of returning home and this number increased as the number of deployments and age of the veteran increases.

STOP-DWI Coordinator, Chris Marion explains, "there are vast differences between how service members drive while in combat and safe driving practices on our highways. Our goal in organizing this event is to bridge this divide and help save lives and prevent injury on our roadways.

If you'd like to show support to our returning troops, you're invited to attend the Returning Warrior 10 & 5 Miler on Sunday, November 8th at Otsiningo Park. The 5-mile race has been designed for those who want to show their support, but aren't up for the 10 miler. There will also be a children's race that will happen after the conclusion of the 10 miler.

Both online and paper registration is available here. Registration prices start at $35 for non-Veterans and that includes a Sport-Tek long sleeve shirt. Veteran registration starts at $20 and teams can register for $25 per runner.