A 10-year-old boy has pledged to run one mile for every fallen police officer in 2018 and 2019 and hopes to raise $15,000 through his efforts.
Zecharia Cartledge tells Fox News he was inspired to raise funds for fallen police officers after he ran in a Tunnel to Towers 5k in Orlando, FL.
Tunnel to Towers is a non-profit organization that honors military and first responders and raises funds to help families of fallen heroes.
“During the opening ceremony I saw all these police officers and firefighters dressed in full gear….once I started running they were actually running with me in full gear and that really inspired me to look up more about the [Tunnel to Towers] foundation,” said Zecharia.
“When I found out they honor police officers and firefighters…I just really wanted to honor police officers because they do so much for us and the community and the hate that they’re getting is just really unacceptable….when I hear an officer pass away it just breaks my heart,” he continued.
When asked what his connection to law enforcement was, Zecharia said, “My best friend’s dad, Officer George, is one of my biggest inspirations. Every day I would see him going out in his cruiser and it would really inspire me.”
“I don’t know lots people that can take a bullet for anybody they don’t know in the community and it’s just an amazing thing and I really wanted to honor them,” he said.
For more information on Zecharia’s efforts, click HERE.
