Approximately 40 participants and an additional 20 volunteers, devoted their time Saturday for the ninth annual, Project Brotherhood Resolve (PBR) Walk for the 22. As previously reported on by the Tribune, the event is held to spread awareness for the 22 veterans a day on average, who commit suicide. The walk spans across 22 miles, beginning at the Lake Orion Memorial and concludes at the Lapeer County VFW.
Participants are not required to complete the entire walk, though most do achieve it. There is also a virtual option; you may register online and over a span of 6 days complete the challenge. Groups from across the state participated, including some from the Lapeer County and the Macomb County Young Marines.
Joshua Helm, a resident of North Branch, was the first to complete the course. He surpassed the record for best time, passing the finish line after only five hours.. He was presented a gift certificate for his achievement by PBR founder Joseph Gemayel. Helm told the Tribune that his father was in the marines and so this means a lot to him personally. “I saw a sign for the PBR Walk out front of the Lapeer Habitat for Humanity store one day. I just felt compelled to do it for the community, to do it to support our veterans. I thank the Lord for the ability to be able to participate in it; I encourage everyone who is able, to participate in it next year,” Helm said.
There were break stations located every few miles of the journey. Walk participants stated their gratefulness for every individual and stop along the way. However, the retreat set up at Hunters Creek Rd. has become infamous among the walkers. Brenda Wells joined in on the activities eight years ago. Her sister, Karen Johnson, has participated in the walk every year, so Wells wanted to get involved as well…