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So Many People to Credit

We would like to thank the many volunteers, race participants, and supporters for the incredible display of pride and patriotism at our fourth annual APK Charities 5K/5K Ruck March and Kids Fun Run held Nov. 4 at the Guilford Fairgrounds.

We hold this event annually to honor the legacy of our son, Captain Andrew Pedersen-Keel, who gave his life in Afghanistan on March 11, 2013, while serving as commander in the 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group.

More than 550 race and ruck participants celebrated the day, and also donated more than 5,000 pounds of food that has been distributed to four food pantries.

Special thanks go to both State Senator Ted Kennedy, Jr. (D-12) and State Representative Noreen Kokoruda (R-101) who worked seamlessly and in great cooperation to sponsor the bill that marks a portion of Route 79 in Madison to soon be renamed “Captain Andrew Pedersen-Keel Memorial Highway” in recognition of Andrew’s life and service. We had the honor of accepting a replica of the sign from our two legislators at the race event. First Selectman Tom Banisch also played an essential part in initiating and moving this project forward.

There are so many people to credit for this amazing event. Thanks go to all of them.

Currently, this is our only fundraiser for veteran causes. We plan on continuing to share our time and energy for many more races to come.

Helen and Bob Keiser-Pedersen

Madison