The First Annual Spirit Hike is set to unfold on Saturday, Sept. 23, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. along the scenic Temescal Ridge Trail in Pacific Palisades.
Register here.
The event is described as a day filled with camaraderie, inspiration, and light exercise.
“I believe it’s a great event for the Veterans and the community to come together,” said event organizer Joe Ramirez. “It’s not too strenuous as a way of having community together and experience nature and then coming back to have lunch and hear a speaker who has overcome obstacles, Jessica Lynch, who I think will be motivational and inspirational.”
Organized in partnership with American Legion Ronald Reagan-Palisades Post 283 and Revive LA Chapel, the Spirit Hike seeks to connect individuals with nature and inner peace through a soulful hike, said Ramirez, a Marine Corps veteran, first vice commander of Post 283, and Revive LA Pastor. The USS Battleship Iowa will be the presenting sponsor for this event.
The 1.6-mile trek along the Temescal Ridge Trail offers participants the chance to enjoy breathtaking views of LA beaches and the ocean, starting from Simon Meadow at the YMCA’s Simon Meadow, located at 15602 Sunset Boulevard, Pacific Palisades, 90272 (corner of Sunset & Temescal Canyon).
After the hike, keynote speaker, Army veteran and former prisoner of war Jessica Lynch will share her story and words of motivation.
Lynch’s time during the Iraq War is one of resilience and determination as she was captured and rescued by U.S. Special Operations Forces after nine days in captivity. Her rescue marked the first successful liberation of an American POW since World War II.
Lynch has since become a beacon of hope and determination, speaking to groups across the United States about overcoming obstacles and the power of a positive outlook. She has made appearances on numerous national and international television shows and magazines, including TIME and People.
To participate in the First Annual Spirit Hike, there is a $25 donation registration fee to cover costs, which includes a T-shirt, lunch, and access to hear guest speaker, Jessica Lynch. Registration is free for veterans. There is no strict registration deadline, but participants are encouraged to sign up prior to the day of the event. Register here.
Ramirez also highlighted the ongoing fundraising efforts, with a need for approximately $5,000 more to support the event. Additionally, the event offers sponsorship opportunities for individuals and businesses looking to support the cause. Donations can be made through the Revive LA website at ReviveLA.net.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
