A former Marine who is running across the country to raise money for veterans in need of service dogs has dedicated 40 total miles of his journey to Fort Hood soldiers Vanessa Guillen and Gregory Morales.
Russell Larkins, from North Carolina, is attempting to run across America with his service dog Storm in order to raise money for other veterans in need of their own service dog.
This week, he dedicated two of his runs to soldiers Vanessa Guillen and Gregory Morales.
"This Run is dedicated to Vanessa Guillen. Soldiers shouldn’t have to worry about fighting for their life on America Soil. Especially Women... Absolutely disgusting. To your family I pray for peace and justice. May you Rest In Peace. #godblessyou," Larkins said on his Facebook called Run Russell Run.
He ran 20 miles on July 10 dedicated to Guillen.
Investigators believe two suspects dismembered Spc. Guillen's body and attempted to burn it after she was bludgeoned to death by a fellow soldier on Fort Hood in April. Human remains found near the Leon River on June 30 have since been confirmed to be of the missing Fort Hood soldier.
This Run is dedicated to Vanessa Guillen. Soldiers shouldn’t have to worry about fighting for their life on America...
Posted by Run Russell Run on Friday, July 10, 2020
On July 12, Larkins ran another 20 miles for Gregory Morales, calling for the Army to change Morales' deserter status.
"This Run is dedicated to Gregory Morales. I’m not sure what’s going on on Fort Hood right now but justice and change is needed. Clear this young mans name from going awol so his family can have a proper military burial. Soldiers should not have to worry about fighting for their lives on America Soil. To your family I pray for peace and justice. I hope your name is cleared ASAP. May you Rest In Peace. #godblessyou," the post said.
PV2 Gregory Morales'remains were found in a field near Killeen on June 19 after the soldier went missing in August 2019.
The soldier's family has been working towards changing Morales' deserter status so he can get a proper military burial.
Russell Larkins was diagnosed with PTSD after serving in the Marines and says his dog Storm has helped him, according to his GoFundMe.
He says the majority of all funds donated during his run across America will be given to Dogs For Our Brave, an organization that trains rescues to be service dogs for veterans.
To view his fundraiser click here.
