This past Saturday, NYS Sen. Dean Murray was proud to participate in Roger Fonnest’s fifth annual 22-Mile Walk for Veteran Suicide Awareness, joining Fonnest for the final two miles on his journey to help shine a light on the tragic reality that approximately 22 veterans die by suicide each day.
The annual walk has become a powerful symbol of awareness, remembrance, and support forveterans struggling with mental health challenges. Through the dedication and advocacy of Fonnest, a 79-year-old United States Marine Corps veteran, alongside his wife, Donna, the event continues to grow each year, bringing together veterans, families, community members, and supporters committed to ending the stigma surrounding mental health and ensuring veterans receive the care and support they deserve.
At the conclusion of the walk, Sen. Murray presented Fonnest with a framed certificate in recognition of his unwavering commitment to raising awareness for veteran suicide prevention and his continued efforts to honor those who have served our nation.
“Roger and Donna Fonnest have turned personal commitment into a meaningful movement that brings attention to an issue that demands our attention,” stated Murray, 3rd Senate District.
“Their dedication to our veterans and their families is truly inspiring, and this annual walk serves as a powerful reminder that we must continue supporting those who have sacrificed so much for our country.”
In recognition of the Dunton Inn’s extraordinary community involvement and steadfast support of veterans, Sen. Murray proudly presented the establishment with the New York State Senate Empire Award, the highest honor bestowed by the New York State Senate upon a business or organization demonstrating excellence, creating meaningful local impact, and making significant contributions to its community.
“The Dunton Inn represents the very best of what a local business can be. Their support for Roger’s mission, their commitment to veterans, and their willingness to rally around important causes have made a lasting difference in our community. It was my honor to present them with the NYS Senate Empire Award in recognition of their tremendous generosity, compassion, and service,” stated Murray.
Sen. Murray thanked all those who participated in and supported the event, emphasizing theimportance of continuing conversations surrounding veteran mental health and ensuring that no veterans feel alone in their struggles.
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