Carry The Load, a non-profit that provides active ways to connect Americans to the sacrifices of our military, veterans, first responders, and their families, has kicked off its Memorial May campaign.

People of all ages can join the month-long national movement to honor and remember our fallen heroes.

The 14th annual Memorial May campaign will stay true to its roots of connecting people to the true meaning of Memorial Day. What started in 2011 as one Memorial Day march has catapulted in numbers and impact.

This year, thousands of participants will walk in Carry The Load’s National Relay that spans 20,000 miles, 48 states, and 69 community events including 33 VA National Cemeteries.

The relay will converge at the Dallas Memorial March on Memorial Day weekend.

Lake Charles events

Two Lake Charles events are planned for Friday, May 24:

Lake Charles Veterans Memorial Park, 4 p.m. May 24,

Coolers Icehouse, 3622 1/2 Ryan St. 6 p.m.

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New this year, Carry The Load is introducing an exciting new element of innovation to make a bigger impact. Upon registering at www.carrytheload.org, volunteers can download the Good Move app, a gamified activity tracking app that allows individuals to easily utilize their mobile device for fundraising progress and health activities such as steps walked on a live leaderboard. All participants are encouraged to register and download the Good Move app.

“Memorial May unites thousands of people under a common purpose, and it’s been incredible to see participants honor our fallen heroes together,” says Stephen Holley, co-founder, president and CEO of Carry The Load and Veteran U.S. Navy SEAL. “We’re building on previous years’ momentum with elements like the Good Move app to deepen personal engagement and help participants strengthen their connections with each other.”

People of all ages can register for free to walk with the National Relay team, attend a Community Event, and fundraise at carrytheload.org/Memorial-May.