Military men run from NYC to Atlanta to raise money for military injury research

LYNCHBURG (WSLS 10) - A group of Marines, Soldiers, veterans and civilian runners made their way through Lynchburg Friday as they run 911 miles, from the World Trade Center in New York City to Atlanta, Georgia between April 19 and 26. 

"We chose 911 where the tragic events happened and we chose Ground Zero to represent," says Troy Campbell, Shepherd's Men.

As if running 911 miles weren't enough, the runners are also carrying vests weighing 22 pounds for the 22 veterans who commit suicide everyday.

"It's tiring but it's not so much about us being tired but of raising money and awareness," says Doc Mackey, Shepherd's Men.

The group is raising money for the Shepherd Center, an internationally recognized research center in Atlanta. The center treats troops suffering from traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries and PTSD. 

The Vietnam Veterans of America and The Military Order of Purple Heart will present $250 each for their fund raiser. So far they've raised $171,873 for the Shepherd Center.