Gold Star Mission Run for the Fallen

Please join us for the Run for the Fallen Half Marathon Run, 5k Run/Walk, and 3k Run/Walk by honoring and supporting Gold Star Families and our Fallen Heroes.  The Run for the Fallen is presented by Gold Star Mission and sponsored by Runner's Image, Carlyle Brewing Co, Cherry Valley Fire Department, and Rockford Lithuanian Club.  The 5k and 3k will have special "Kid Friendly" pricing for ages 17 and under ( All runners must register on RunSignUp). This event is an opportunity to experience the scenic beauty of Winnebago County's forest preserves while supporting the efforts of the Gold Star Mission.

The Gold Star Mission is a nonprofit organization that seeks to Honor and Support Gold Star Families by preserving the memory of our Fallen Heroes through service to others in need. The Gold Star Mission works to ensure higher education is a possibility for the family members of Illinois Service Members who have lost their lives in service to our country.  The Gold Star Mission allocates funds raised through Gold Star Mission events to support the Gold Star Mission Scholarship Fund.  The Gold Star Mission is an opportunity to ensure that these service members’ names live on forever, and that their sacrifices create opportunities to enrich the lives of others. Thus, we must Never Forget.

All races will be held primarily within three beautiful Winnebago County Forest Preserves; Kishwaukee, Blackhawk Springs and Espenschied. Much of the half marathon is on trails ranging from grassy double-track to twisting and technical single-track. The remainder is on paved roads and paths.  The 5k Run/Walk utilizes a mix of paved and gravel.  The 3K Run/Walk utilizes paved roads.  Both races traverse a stretch of private property that is only open to registered racers on the day of the race. Scenic, well marked and with plenty of aid stations, these two events are ideal for first timers, but can also be a challenging race for experienced trail runners. Both courses will be supported and remain open for four hours, 8 AM to noon.  

Some portions of the race may be very muddy due to weather conditions in the days leading up to the race. If access to Espenschied F.P. is not possible due to high water levels, an alternate shortened course for the half marathon will be used.

A finisher medal will be provided for all participants for the:  3k (17 and under), 5k, and half marathon.  

After the race, celebrate with locally brewed beer from Rockford's own Carlyle Brewing Company (www.carlylebrewing.com. Must be 21) and will be available to all race entrants and paid guests.  A ceremony following the race will take place to honor and support the Gold Star Families and remember our fallen service members, thus preserving the memory of our Fallen Heroes.