“Wounded Walk” hits a road bump
Two Marines walking to honor wounded veterans were told to change their route.
“The Wounded Walk” founder Cpl. Adam Shatarsky said he and fellow walker Cpl. Ross Delafield were stopped by California Highway Patrol just outside of Mecca on August 4.
Shatarsky said the officer was concerned for their safety, but also said they did not have the correct encroachment permits to be in the right-of-way of Interstate 10.
The officer explained the permits cost up to $82 an hour, according to Shatarsky.
According to the California Department of Transportation website, the permits are often issued for construction projects.
The Wounded Walk posted a video of the mountainous terrain they were forced to walk on instead.
Hours later, Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz and the California Highway Patrol came to an agreement to allow the Wounded Walk to continue on flat land alongside the freeway.
Ruiz said in a statement, “So proud of what these heroes are doing! Please share their story and encourage them along the way.”
Congressman Ruiz (D, 36th District) serves on the Committee of Veteran’s Affairs.
The walkers are now nearing Blythe.
Last year, the Wounded Walk became an official non-profit 501(c) and donated the funds for a prosthetic leg to a female wounded veteran. That woman just ran her first marathon.
To follow their journey, see their accomplishments, or to make a donation, visit www.TheWoundedWalk.org.
