OPERATION
CAROLINA
One man. 700 miles. 17 days. Running across North Carolina to raise awareness for veteran, service member, and first responder mental health. Proving that finish lines are lifelines for everyone in and out of service.
THE MISSION
In September 2026, Operation WarriorFit founder Jonathan Milkovich will embark on an unprecedented journey: running approximately 700 miles across the entire state of North Carolina in just 17 days.
Starting in Murphy (the westernmost point of NC) and finishing in Manteo on the Outer Banks, this solo ultra-endurance event will traverse mountains, piedmont, and coastal plains, all to raise awareness for veteran, service member, and first responder mental health.
Why 22? Every day, 22 veterans die by suicide. First responders face similar mental health challenges, with firefighters and police officers experiencing higher rates of PTSD and depression than the general population. Operation Carolina aims to start 22 conversations about mental health every single day of the journey.
This isn't just a run. It's a movement to create new purpose and community for those who have served, proving that movement is medicine and help is always available.
DAILY CONTENT
- Morning briefing video with route preview
- Live GPS tracking during the run
- Evening recap with stories from the day
- Interviews with veterans and first responders along the route
- Community meetup highlights
THE 17-DAY ROUTE
From the mountains to the sea, each day brings new challenges and new communities to connect with.
COMMUNITY MEETUPS
Join Jonathan and the OWF community at Fleet Feet locations across North Carolina. Run a few miles together, share your story, and be part of the movement.
Sep 25, 2026
6:00 PM
Fleet Feet Asheville
Sep 29, 2026
6:00 PM
Fleet Feet Hickory
Oct 1, 2026
6:00 PM
Fleet Feet Charlotte
Oct 3, 2026
6:00 PM
Fleet Feet Greensboro
Oct 6, 2026
6:00 PM
Fleet Feet Raleigh
More meetup locations and times will be announced as the event approaches. Follow us on social media for updates.
HOW TO SUPPORT
There are many ways to be part of this mission. Every contribution, big or small, helps us raise awareness for veteran mental health.
DONATE
Every dollar supports veteran mental health awareness and helps warriors get to starting lines.
Donate NowJOIN A MEETUP
Run alongside Jonathan at one of our community meetups and be part of the journey.
View MeetupsINTERESTED IN SPONSORING?
Operation Carolina offers unique sponsorship opportunities for brands that want to support veteran mental health awareness. From presenting sponsors to mile marker sponsors, there's a level for every organization.
View Sponsorship OpportunitiesIF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW NEEDS HELP
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and Press 1, or text 838255
Learn More Resources