As you may know, my name is David Reed, and I am a proud Army Veteran with 2 combat tours in Iraq. Upon honorable discharge after my commitment, I became a beneficiary of the incredible support provided by Project One Vet @ A Time (POVAT), at no cost or expense to me and my family. The results were life changing.This coming year, I’m embarking on a deeply personal journey by participating in the Bataan Memorial Death March—an event steeped in military history and significance. I am dedicating my training and race to my mother, Clare Love, who passed away in October 2023 from cancer, and I’m honored to share this experience with my best friend and fellow Army Veteran, Brian Harlor, who bravely deployed with me to Iraq. Together, we’ve faced challenges and celebrated triumphs, and now, we march side by side once more in a tribute to resilience and remembrance.My mother, Clare Love, was a pillar of strength and compassion. As a dedicated mother, sister, and friend, her kindness, thoughtfulness, and deep love for family shone through in everything she did. She served the West Palm Beach Police Department for over 15 years. She was the epitome of a unifier, bringing people together in the spirit of community and understanding. Her legacy includes raising my 2 nephews, further showcasing her unwavering commitment to family and her immense capacity for love. The Bataan Memorial Death March is a challenging and inspirational trek through the high desert terrain of White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. It commemorates the Bataan Death March of World War II, where thousands of American and Filipino soldiers were forced to march over 60 miles under brutal conditions by Japanese forces in 1942. Participating in this event is my way of paying homage to those who suffered and sacrificed during that dark period, and it serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom.This march is more than a personal challenge; it’s an opportunity to give back and honor my mother’s memory. Through POVAT’s mission to provide comprehensive support to Veterans, I found invaluable assistance and unwavering support during a crucial time in my life. POVAT specializes in guiding Veterans through the often-complex process of seeking VA Compensation & Pension Benefits, ensuring that those who served our country receive what they have rightly earned and deserve.
By seeking to raise funds for POVAT from this march, I will create a legacy of support and compassion, mirroring the love and unity my mother brought to everyone she touched in this world. Every step we take will be a step to honor her memory and make a difference in the lives of those who have served our nation.I invite you to join us in this journey of remembrance, honor, and support. Together, we can honor the past, cherish the memory of a beloved soul, and build a better future for our Veterans. I appreciate your support – GO ARMY!
– David Reed, Army Veteran
To learn more about POVAT, click HERE.
To learn more about The Bataan Memorial Death March, click HERE.