(PHOTO BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
AN IDEA … Grady Langenderfer created the Poppy Run 5K as a way to honor his grandfather’s friends who never came home from the Vietnam War. It has continued into its second year and has grown to include over 100 participants.
By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
The second annual Poppy Run 5K brought the community together Saturday morning at the Fulton County Fairgrounds for more than just a race.
It was a heartfelt reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served, and a powerful tribute to one local veteran whose life left a lasting mark.
The event was started by 11-year-old Grady Langenderfer as a way to honor his grandfather’s friends who never came home from the Vietnam War.
This year, the run carried even deeper meaning, as it also remembered Grady’s grandfather, Thomas J. Langenderfer, a U.S. Marine and Purple Heart recipient who passed away in January.
Before the race began, participants gathered for a Memorial Day ceremony that set the tone for the morning. Grady gave an emotional speech about what the day means and why the run exists.
He talked about his grandfather’s strength, his struggles, and the pride he took in serving his country and his community. “This race isn’t about who finishes first,” Grady told the crowd.
“It’s about remembering the people who ran a much harder race, the ones who didn’t get to come home.”
Ohio State Representative Jim Hoops was also there to show support and share a few words. He commended Grady’s leadership and passion and announced plans to introduce legislation that would allow surviving spouses of Purple Heart recipients to keep their special license plates after their loved one passes, a change inspired by Grady.
After the ceremony, runners and walkers of all ages took to the 5K course, while kids participated in a special half-mile race of their own. Everyone who crossed the finish line received a medal featuring a poppy, the flower that’s become a worldwide symbol of remembrance.
Top finishers in each age group received awards during a brief ceremony, but the day wasn’t about trophies. It was about honoring the past and making sure the stories of those who served aren’t forgotten.
All proceeds from the event are going to organizations that support veterans and their families, including Flag City Honor Flight, Fisher House Foundation, and the Disabled American Veterans.
What started as a teenager’s tribute to his grandfather has grown into something much bigger. A community tradition that honors sacrifice, celebrates service, and reminds us all why Memorial Day matters.