The Connection

In 2004, a close friend of Cindy McGrew’s was deployed to Iraq. When his fellow soldiers were injured and heading to Walter Reed, she visited them, searching for a way to help the soldiers and their families. Because of the dire need to provide assistance to veterans and their families, she founded Operation Second Chance (OSC) — now celebrating its 10th anniversary.

“Over the past 10 years, OSC has provided more than $2.5 million in assistance and morale activities to our wounded, injured and ill (WII) veterans. We receive requests for assistance every day from veterans who are struggling to keep up with their bills,” said McGrew. “We assist with rent and mortgage payments, utility bills, travel lodging and daily essential items, like food, clothing, etc. We also host monthly caregiver days, which gives the caregivers an opportunity to be pampered for the day. Additionally, we offer hunting and fishing programs and couples’ retreats that offer a chance for families to re-connect.”

“It is because of the generosity of our nation’s communities and programs like The Sergeant’s Program, fundraising efforts, grants, CFC and individual donations that bless us with the opportunity to serve those who so bravely served us,” McGrew said.

Once again, The Sergeant’s Program is dragging it recruits, friends – and one Jolly Fat Man out of bed for a fun run/walk down Capital Crescent Trail to support Operation Second Chance — a charity that is close to the military roots and theme of The Sergeant’s Program. The Sergeant’s Program, headquartered in Potomac, is a civilian Bootcamp program. Staff utilize a conditioning routine designed to whip recruits into decent shape within a few short weeks – and keep them in shape.

Registration for the Dec. 13 run is $40 and participants receive a shirt, post walk/run breakfast at the American Tap Room and the opportunity to participate in a raffle with prizes donated by local merchants.

The race was launched 19 years ago when one of the sergeants went running with a group of "less than fit" men, otherwise known as the jolly fat men. The Sergeant’s Program held its first run — and each year, have found it the most meaningful fundraiser they sponsor — so they have vowed to keep it going. Head Sergeant Chuck Dyson is excited that they can entitle their run after their group of “Jolly Fat Men” in the spirit of St. Nick and Santa Claus. Dyson leads a warm-up for all Jolly Fat Man participants and gets the group moving to the Capital Crescent Trail for the walk or run of any distance.

“I can’t help but think that wounded, injured and ill veterans are all striving to ‘Be all they used to be’ which is so fitting with The Sergeant’s Program motto,” said McGrew. “We have a whole generation of veterans that suffer from PTSD and a multitude of injuries. When they are injured, they are injured for life. Sadly, 22 combat vets loss their battles and take their lives every day.”

Rob Grimes, CEO and president of The Sergeant’s Program said, “We are thrilled to continue working with Operation Second Chance and partner with them on this annual event. The Sergeant’s Program community is enthusiastic to support such a wonderful, worthy and important cause.”

This is the last running event of the season. Warm-up in front of Mon Ami Gabi, 7239 Woodmont Ave. at 8 a.m. and then choose one’s own distance to run or walk – 2 miles, 4 miles – or 14 miles to Georgetown and back. Return to the starting line by 10 a.m. and head to the American Tap Room for a hot breakfast and the raffle. Register online or on-site for $40. Thursday, Dec. 11 from 6 – 9 is a happy Hour Packet Pick-up at the American Tap Room in Bethesda or pick up the packets after the race.

For more information or to register, go to www.sarge.com or email info@sargecorp.com.