NORTH KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Thousands of people are taking part in a massive effort to shift the focus of Memorial Day.

Each step taken honors someone who laid down their life to protect our freedom.

“For anyone who has lost someone in service to our country, they will tell you that participating in Carry The Load has made a lasting impact on their life,” Stephen Holley, co-founder, president and CEO of Carry The Load, said. “There is nothing like the human touch. Being in that environment, walking side-by-side one another, and sharing stories demonstrates beyond words that people do care.”