Operation Row For 22

‍♂️ ROW FOR 22 — Virtual 5K Move for a Mission Bigger Than the Miles In 2028, a father and son from Southern Illinois will attempt one of the most extreme endurance challenges on earth: rowing 2,800 miles across the Pacific Ocean from California to Hawaii. That son is Aiden, who will be one of the youngest people in history to attempt this crossing. His goal is simple but powerful: **Row to show other Veterans that life doesn't end when the uniform comes off. Adventure still exists. Purpose still exists. Hope still exists.** The Row for 22 Virtual 5K is the first major fundraising and awareness event supporting that mission. Every participant helps fuel the journey that will carry Aiden and his father across the Pacific — and every mile honors the 22 veterans we lose to suicide every single day. THE MISSION The 2028 Pacific Row will support veteran suicide prevention and raise money for veteran programs through the Southern Illinois Veterans Foundation. Row for 22 is designed to: Build awareness for the 2028 crossing Help raise the training, safety, and equipment costs Share Aiden’s story and inspire young people everywhere Bring communities together around the fight against veteran suicide Show veterans that purpose and adventure don’t end with service ABOUT THE 2028 PACIFIC ROW Aiden and his father will: Row 2 on / 2 off, nonstop, for 2,800 miles Endure storms, 40+ foot waves, isolation, and exhaustion Navigate using ocean charts, radios, and safety equipment Train for years in water safety, sea survival, navigation, and endurance Complete one of the toughest rows on earth Their boat will carry tributes to the 22 veterans lost each day and will become the centerpiece of SIVF’s mental health and suicide-prevention mission. HOW THE VIRTUAL 5K WORKS 1. Register Online 2. Pick Your Discipline Row • Run • Walk • Ruck • Bike — it all counts. (A nod to the Pacific row — rowing is encouraged but not required.) 3. Complete Your 5K Anywhere On your schedule