BRISTOL, R.I. (WPRI) — John Burnelli has dedicated his life to service.
Despite working as a paramedic, firefighter and dispatcher, the U.S. Navy reservist told 12 News he still doesn’t feel as though he’s “done enough.”
“I feel kind of guilty because I never served in combat,” Burnelli said. “There are people who have sacrificed so much.”
That’s why he’s taking his efforts one step further by running in the Anchor Down Ultra Marathon .
The seaside endurance race takes place annually at Colt State Park. Even though there are 6-hour and 12-hour options, Burnelli is going all in and partaking in the 24-hour race.
Burnelli said helping his brothers and sisters in uniform is “paramount” to him, which is why he’s running to benefit New Englanders Helping Our Veterans .
Anchor Down notes that the “grueling” race is typically held on one of the hottest weekends of the year and is meant to be challenging.
Burnelli has been training for the marathon for months. He told 12 News that, whenever he starts to get tired or sore, he shifts his focus.