GateWay students put their hands over their hearts during the National Anthem before the 2024 Veterans Day Run.
On Veterans Day, the symbolic distance of 2.2 miles represents the daily toll of veteran suicide—and provides a meaningful way for communities to come together in support.
What the 2.2-Mile Movement Is About
Every day, an average of 17.6 veterans die by suicide, according to the National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report (2024). This staggering number (down from 22 when the movement began) is a sobering reminder of the challenges many veterans face long after their service ends.
A Call to Action
Many events encourage participants to walk or run in honor of a specific veteran, turning awareness into meaningful action. These gatherings bring veterans, their families, and community members together, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
How You Can Participate
Join GateWay’s Veterans Day Run! Because the college is closed on Tuesday, GateWay Community College is hosting a Veterans Day Run on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025, at 7:00 a.m. to honor veterans and raise awareness about veteran suicide.
If you can’t attend in person, you can participate on your own. Walk or run the 2.2 miles from anywhere while showing your support. Even a solo 2.2-mile walk or run can honor a veteran in your life while raising awareness about veteran suicide.
This Veterans Day, take 2.2 miles—not just as a distance, but as a commitment to remembering, supporting, and standing with our veterans.