Hanover Twp. hosts marathon to support troops, veterans

It's time to gather a little bit of home and send it to the other side of the world.

The Hanover Township clerk's office will host its fourth annual Support Our Troops Marathon Friday and Saturday. The event is intended to support those currently serving overseas in the armed forces while also honoring local veterans.

The township is working with Operation Support Our Troops Illinois, an organization dedicated to sending care packages to members of the military deployed abroad.

The donations will be packaged and sent to American soldiers stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Among the suggested items for donation during the marathon are canned snack items, athletic tube socks, pocket-size tissues, batteries, sunscreen, disposable cameras and fly swatters.

Deputy Hanover Township Clerk Mary Jo Imperato said usually about 500 people come to the event. She said their donations filled up more than two full trailers last year.

"People have brought beautiful things. They've made blankets and cards," she said. "Why would (soldiers) want blankets in Iraq? They make them feel as if they're home. One person brought bath towels."

Though the marathon has in the past run a full 24 hours, this year's event will be from 4 to 10 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

In addition to accepting donations during those hours, a number of special activities are planned.

A classic car show with DJ Tony Adelfio runs from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday.

Saturday's events include face-painting, a free car wash, a moonwalk and crafts to prepare for the troops.

Also Saturday, and new this year, is Touch-a-Truck, where many municipalities are bringing SWAT, DARE and other vehicles for children to see.

There will also be refreshments to purchase and a raffle.

The event will also honor members of the Hanover Township Honor Roll Veterans, a program recognizing township residents who have served in the military. A reception for veterans will start the marathon at 4 p.m. Friday, followed by a flag ceremony at 5 p.m.

Imperato said local veterans groups give presentations every year for the honor roll induction.

"It's just really something that means so much to them," she said. "So they come, and we do it every year."

If you go

What: Hanover Township Fourth Annual Support Our Troops Marathon

When: 4-10 p.m. Friday, with car show 5-9 p.m.; 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, with many family activities Saturday

Where: Hanover Township, 150 S. Route 59, Bartlett

Admission: Free but donations for troops requested

Contact: (630) 837-0301