Hi, my name is Alex Fooa I’ll be running in Boston’s Run to Remember to honor first responders and the Massachusetts Fallen Heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice since September 11, 2001.
As a member of the New Hampshire National Guard and a cadet in the University of New Hampshire Army ROTC program, I joined because service has always been bigger than me. My parents came to this country as Asian American immigrants searching for a chance at a better life. They worked for every step forward, and because of their sacrifices, I grew up with opportunities they never had. I was able to learn, to grow, and even to fail in a place that gave me the freedom to stand back up again. That is something I will always be grateful for.
I serve because I want others to have the same opportunities my family was given. I want future generations to grow up in a country where they can dream freely, where hard work can build a future, and where sacrifice is honored. Being able to give back to the nation that gave my family a home is a privilege. Service allows me to contribute to a stronger, better culture built on courage, community, and the belief that we look out for one another.
Running in Boston’s Run to Remember is a continuation of that purpose. This race is not about me. It is about the men and women who put their lives on the line, the heroes who never came home, and the families who carry their memory every day. It is about honoring their courage, remembering their sacrifice, and making sure their stories live on. If you feel moved to support this mission, I would be grateful for any donation made in their honor. Every contribution helps carry their legacy forward and supports the work of remembering those who gave everything.
Thank you for reading my story.
Together, we run to remember.
Together, we honor. support. empower.
-Alex Fooa
Boston's Run To Remember
Massachusetts Fallen Heroes and InnoVets participate in the Run To Remember to raise awareness and vital funds for their programs supporting Gold Star families and Veterans. Runners, spectators, and community members come together on Memorial Day weekend to celebrate service, sacrifice, and resilience — bridging the military and first-responder communities through a shared expression of gratitude. Whether you're lacing up for the half-marathon, the 5-mile run, or joining as a supporter, this partnership embodies the spirit of Honor. Support. Empower. — ensuring that the sacrifices of fallen are never forgotten and that veterans and their families receive the opportunities and care they deserve. Join us in Boston for a meaningful run that remembers, honors, and builds a stronger future for our heroes.
At Massachusetts Fallen Heroes we memorialize our fallen and we provide programs and services for our Veteran and Gold Star Family community. Help us honor the memories of the Massachusetts men and women who served since September 11, 2001 and gave their lives for our nation. Founded in 2010 by combat veterans, Gold Star families, and first responders, MFH built the iconic Massachusetts Fallen Heroes Memorial in Boston’s Seaport District and has since expanded to deliver programs, events, and direct assistance to Gold Star families and veterans. InnoVets InnoVets is the veteran empowerment and business accelerator program that grew out of Massachusetts Fallen Heroes (and is now often presented as its flagship initiative and rebranded focus for veteran programming). Its mission centers on equipping veterans, Gold Star family entrepreneurs, and the military-connected community with the skills, mentorship, resources, and opportunities to thrive — particularly through entrepreneurship, career development, and innovation.