FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) — A firefighter and veteran has been going the distance every Fourth of July in honor of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Army National Guard veteran and Fort Wayne Firefighter and Paramedic Lieutenant Emmanuel Rodriguez runs at least 10 miles carrying an American flag every year on the nation’s anniversary.
“It started when I was 30, and I was preparing for my first marathon; it was the Fourth of July. So as a veteran, and also as a first responder, I wanted to do it as my own personal tribute to my fellow veterans, my fellow first responders,” said Emmanuel. “All those who sacrificed themselves, those who are prone to suicide, and those who have lost their lives in the line of duty, it’s just my little tribute, just running on the Fourth of July with an American flag.”…