By Shannon Halligan 41 Action News
OLATHE, Kan. – Runners in Olathe paid tribute to victims of 9/11 with the Patriots’ Run on Wednesday.
Shirley and Robert Hemenway of Shawnee, Kan., go to the event every year to remember their son killed on September 11th, 2001.
Their son, Ronald Hemenway, died when a plane crashed into the Pentagon.
It was an assignment that at the time brought so much pride to their family.
“He put in for the Pentagon and he got it. It’s pretty difficult to get that assignment,” Robert said.
Even though it’s a somber anniversary, they choose to spend the day in Olathe.
“We’ve been coming here for the last couple years because I’d rather do this than sit at home because this is more uplifting,” Shirley said.
Hundreds ran to remember people like Ronald, victims of September 11th. They also ran to thank those who served or are serving.
“We have runners, four runners who said we can’t let America forget. So those four runners decided to have a run and they started it 11 years ago,” Patriots’ Run Director Mary VanGorp said.
But even with the support of friends, family and runners, nothing will replace losing their son.
“I talked to him for about an hour and a half the night before he died about different equipment. I said, ‘Ron you better go to bed, you’ll never get up in the morning.’ I wish I didn’t,” Robert said.
The entire run lasted nine hours and 11 minutes.
