Velva’s American Legion holds first Hope in Motion suicide walk

Jodie Frankl, American Legion Post 39 second vice commander, carries the flag and leads the Hope in Motion suicide walk held in Velva. Photo from Lacey Holmen.

John Holmen, American Legion Post 39 commander, holds an award medal. Photo from Lacey Holmen.

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Jodie Frankl, American Legion Post 39 second vice commander, carries the flag and leads the Hope in Motion suicide walk held in Velva. Photo from Lacey Holmen.

John Holmen, American Legion Post 39 commander, holds an award medal. Photo from Lacey Holmen.

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VELVA -- The American Legion Post 39 in Velva held its inaugural Hope in Motion suicide walk on Aug. 22 to raise awareness for veteran suicide prevention.

Organized by John Holmen and fellow members of Post 39, the event featured military boots along the walking trail holding written messages that shared statistics on veteran suicide and encouraged participants to support one another.

According to Holmen, about 50 participants from Velva and the surrounding area joined the walk, raising nearly $1,200. Proceeds will benefit Together with Veterans and American Legion Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation programs.

The inaugural event also included an afternoon car show featuring awards for select vehicle owners.