History
In 2012, 3rd Ranger Battalion veteran US Army Corporal Cory Smith, having deployed to combat twice, experienced having friends killed and wounded and with his own marriage failing, decided to highlight the difficult journey home many soldiers have leaving the Army by undergoing a very public and very difficult journey home himself. Cory decided to run 565 miles in 28 days with the end goal of his run to hold his daughter Elleigh in his arms. Cory sought to be the physical embodiment of challenges facing transitioning service members as they enter civilian life.
Moved by Cory’s determination to raise awareness, GallantFew established the awareness and fitness event Run Ranger Run, now Patriot Challenge. Cory’s one of victory and triumph within the veteran community, showing the power just one person can have when they dare to take bold action and refuse to fall short of a commitment to fellow veterans, family members, and friends.
Read more about Cory’s Story
- US Veterans Magazine feature on Run Ranger Run and how it supports GallantFew’s mission
- Hear Cory on Veteran Cast podcast talk about his transition from military service to civilian life
- Read about Cory’s “road less traveled” in an Army.mil article on Run Ranger Run
- Coffee or Die article on Patriot Challenge: Not just for runners
Run Ranger Run, now Patriot Challenge
GallantFew’s Patriot Challenge is a nationwide tribute to Cory’s inspirational advocacy. Each February, the military community links arms with civilian patriots across America in honor of Cory’s commitment to ONE mission – to support and raise funds so that any veteran or service member can receive one-on-one mentorship to live a life full of hope and purpose.
GallantFew’s Patriot Challenge is a nationwide tribute to Cory’s inspirational advocacy. Each February, the military community links arms with civilian patriots across America in honor of Cory’s commitment to ONE mission – to support and raise funds so that any veteran or service member can receive one-on-one mentorship to live a life full of hope and purpose.
It is our belief that a veteran with a purpose strengthens a nation and that a successful transition and reintegration require community engagement.
