BY JENN SAMSEL
Special to the Monitor
This past weekend’s 10th annual Krawl’n for the Fallen event, which took place at Keystone Heights Airport, was a memorial to remember.
The community brought their Jeeps and trucks, taking part in honoring all the nationally fallen police officers and K-9s who dedicated their lives serving to protect the people who were killed in the line of duty.
The event opened Saturday morning with a ceremony, followed by trail riding, obstacle courses, and mudding,
At noon, there was a moment of silence, recognition of survivors, officers, and donors, and a memorial survivor ride at night.
Over 300 Jeeps and trucks lined up at night, paying their respects with blue lights and flags that honored each fallen survivor of the officers and their families with support.
Friends, family, colleagues, and the general public attended the event to pay tribute and support the families.
According to Off-Road United, Krawl’n for the Fallen is one of Florida’s largest off-road events. Over 2,000 participants showed off their jeeps and trucks, bringing together law enforcement and the community for fellowship and fun.
“The event is a weekend event where we invite survivors, families of law enforcement officers who have been on duty, to come out and enjoy a weekend of family fun, and know that we’re always supporting them, even though they’ve lost so much. We give them a little bit of hope at the end of the day.”, said Christine Johnson, Event Coordinator.
“I love that there is so much support for our first responders, law enforcement, and families,” Johnson added. “The outdoor community is just an amazing group to support us.”
The event coordinator also thanked vendors, volunteers, and the Lake Region for their support.
“It’s a great event for everybody to come out to and show their love and support,” said Johnson.
There were plenty of activities for non-off-roaders, including numerous police, fire, boat, and helicopter displays, as well as food, raffles, music, and vendors.
Plus, it was a perfect photo opportunity with the famous Star Wars Storm Troopers, who took plenty of photos with their fans.
Numerous law enforcement agencies across North Florida attended the event, including the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office, Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, Bradford County Sheriff’s Office, Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
The University of Florida’s Trauma One helicopter and Bradford County Fire Rescue were in attendance, too.
Rachel Moran, of Island Off-Road said she has been a volunteer for the event for eight years.
“We do registration.,” she said. “I’m like a house mom. I create all the flyers and other tasks for Chrissy. I am a support system.”
Moran added that Island Offroad produces a separate event that benefits veterans, the Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization, Krawlin’ for the Fallen, and some of the local food banks in her area.
“When my event comes up in March, Chrissy and her staff come out to help,” she said.
For information regarding the event, visit Off-Road United or Krawln for the Fallen or email them at [email protected].
