To the Editor:

It is my privilege to be involved in organizing a memorial tribute to one of Vermont’s fallen heroes, Lt. Mark H. Dooley. This year, on the September 19, the anniversary of Mark’s death, we will hold the first Lt. Mark H. Dooley 5K Race of Remembrance in Wilmington. We have chosen a 5K Memorial Race as a living tribute to Mark, honoring his sacrifice.

We are reaching out for support from the community as we seek sponsors and volunteers for this event. If your business or a business you know would be interested in sponsoring this noble cause, we would like to hear from you. Race T-shirts will be produced and will recognize official sponsors for their contributions. Some sponsors will be recognized in event advertising and more. Thank you in advance for your consideration.

Mark was born in New York State and in time Vermont became his home. He attended college at Norwich University, served on the Windham County Sheriff’s Department, and at the time of his deployment with the Vermont Army National Guard he was employed as a police officer with the town of Wilmington.

On September 19, 2005, Mark was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle during patrol operations in Ar Ramadi, Iraq.

It is our goal to keep the memory of Mark alive by establishing a memorial to be on display in Wilmington and to continue to fund the already established Lt. Mark Dooley Scholarship that is awarded at the Twin Valley High School.

We are hoping that many will register and turnout to take part in this special day of remembrance for Mark and for those like him who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Please contact me if you would like more information at ltmarkdooley5K@gmail.com, (802) 464-0708, Race of Remembrance, P.O. Box1635, Wilmington, VT 05363. Visit the race Web site for a downloadable registration form at www.markdooley5k.com.

Sincerely,

Gregory Murano

Wilmington