Officer Nick Hurst, a United States Marine Corps veteran, completed a 120 mile walk from Arlington National Cemetery to New Castle County Police Headquarters to honor fallen Marines and raise money for veterans in need.
(New Castle, Del. – 19720) Ofc Hurst served as an infantryman in the United States Marine Corps with the 2nd Battalion 6th Marines between 2004 and 2008. During that time, he and his unit were deployed to Fallujah, Iraq twice. His battalion suffered numerous casualties while deployed and since returning home, Ofc Hurst has seen the tolls that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) takes on veterans. Ofc Hurst decided to take action by starting a fund raiser.
“Since returning home from my deployments I have lost multiple Marines from my unit as a result of PTSD. This fundraiser is titled ‘2/6 Marines Memorial March’ in honor of the Marines of my unit,” said Ofc Hurst.
The 2/6 Marines Memorial March started on October 27 at Arlington National Cemetery and concluded on November 1 at New Castle County Police Headquarters. The event raised awareness for veterans suffering from PTSD and to honor fallen Marines. Ofc Hurst, accompanied by other Marines, completed the 120 mile walk wearing rucksacks.
“The reason I chose to start on October 27, 2016 is because that date marks the 11th year anniversary of the deaths of L/Cpl. Kremm and L/Cpl. Eckfield. This walk will also honor all 2/6 Marines who have given their lives during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan whether they were killed in action or took their life as a result of PTSD,” explained Ofc Hurst. L/Cpl. Kremm was Ofc Hurt’s team leader and L/Cpl. Eckfield was Ofc Hurst’s roommate.
The money raised will be donated to the Semper Fi Fund which benefits veterans in need and their families.
To donate: Go to fundraising.semperfifund.org, click “Make a One-Time Donation,” then select “Nick Hurst- 2/6 Marines Memorial March.”
