In honor of all war veterans, our very own hero Michael P. Murphy,  Patchogue Medford High-Schoo alumnus, Eva Casale, has run seven marathons in seven days. In her completion of over 180 miles, Casale has brought extensive awareness to various organizations, including Hope For The Warriors, the organization provides assistance to combat wounded service members and their families. Not only has Casale devoted her efforts to an incredibly moving cause, but the PMHS boys and girls track teams had the opportunity to run with her and devote their efforts as well.

Pat-Med’s boys and girls track teams were able to join Casale on her run. “Eva Casale is extremely courageous to run seven marathons in seven days,” stated Carlos Santos, member of the boys track team. “It is no doubt that she is a symbol of pride for this country and I was honored to take part of this event she lead.” There were fourteen cadets from our AFJROTC program that attended the LT. (SEAL) Michael P. Murphy ceremony and stood by to welcome the runners as they approached the school.

Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy, a Navy SEAL who served in Afghanistan under troubling circumstances, is nothing short of a war hero. While searching for an enemy in the Afghani mountains, Murphy and his team of three other SEALs were spotted and reported to an enemy force of more than 50 anti-coalition militia. Murphy and his team were outnumbered in the fire-fight that erupted making it crucial that the SEALs contact a rescue team as soon as possible. However, the distress call would not transmit past the terrain protecting the SEALs. As a result, Murphy moved into open fire and made contact with headquarters.

Severely wounded, Murphy returned to his cover position; however, such wounds were fatal, and Murphy, along with two other SEALs, lost their lives during the battle. The lone survivor, Marcus Luttrell, was rescued days later. This rescue may have been compromised had Murphy not sacrificed his life to make contact with headquarters.  Moreover, it is no doubt that LT. Michael Murphy was a selfless war hero.

Interestingly, Eva Casale, former student at Patchogue Medford High School, actually graduated in Lt. Michael Murphy’s class. Thus, Casale’s cause is incredibly personal and it is evident the roots of her drive to raise awareness for war veteran organizations.

Since 2006, Casale has raised over $250,000 and has run over 60 marathons, each mile honoring a different service member. Not only does Casale’s accomplishments honor US war veterans, but they symbolize all citizen’s endless appreciation for their profuse  sacrifices.