Community Turns Out for Rifleman Run

Runners and walkers took to the streets of Center Moriches for the second annual Rifleman Run 5K, continuing a community tradition dedicated to supporting local veterans and VFW Post 414.

Marine veteran and 414 member Joe Sparling organized the event, saying the run serves as both a fundraiser for the post and a way to introduce more residents and veterans to the organization and its work.

“This is something we can do for our veterans, support the post and bring the community together,” Sparling said. “We also want veterans who may not know about us to come down, meet the members and hopefully become part of the post.”

A giant American flag courtesy of the Center Moriches Fire Department hung above the route as runners and walkers gathered for the 5K, which also included a shorter route for the kids.

For the second year running, Center Moriches resident William B. Roach posted the fastest time.

Suffolk County Legislator Jim Mazzarella was on hand to send the participants on their way. “I’m always happy to be at any event that helps our veterans. This is near and dear to my heart,” Mazzarella said, mentioning that his son recently completed explosive ordnance disposal training in Maryland. “God bless our military, our veterans and America.”

Manning the finish line was Army veteran Hector Sanchez, a Post 414 member from Shirley. “It’s such a great event,” Sanchez said. “It helps bring everyone together. It’s such a good thing for the post.”

Steve Tooker of Eastport, participating with Chip Tyson and Robin Penny-Leuthhardt of Center Moriches, praised having the 5K close to home.

“It’s such a healthy activity right here in the community,” Tooker said. “Thank you to Post 414 and everyone involved for getting us out here.”

After the race, there was live music by Tiger Rose performing music of The Jerry Garcia Band (JGB) and beverages from the Blue Point Brewing Company.

Sponsors included Unique Fitness, Champ Farms, Riverhead Fence, Helping Makes You Happy, Knights of Columbus, Center Moriches Fire Department, Red Rocket Roasters, Ancient Order of Hibernians, Apex Biosciences, Luna Mesa Day Spa, Knights of Columbus, and Friends of Bradstock.

The event also recognized support given in loving memory of Joe Dotts.