RIVER FALLS – Area residents of all ages are invited to participate in an April 27 “Workout of the Day” event honoring fallen military members. Called Manion WOD, the annual nationwide event was started in memory of Travis Manion, a Marine 1^st Lieutenant who was killed in Iraq on April 29, 2007, along with all others who have fallen in service to the country.

The Workout of the Day (WOD) fitness challenge consists of a 40- meter run/walk and 29 squats executed for seven rounds. The 29 squats represent the 29^th day, the 400 meters represent the fourth month, April, and the seven rounds represent the year, 2007, the date Manion lost his life. Local organizer retired Army SgtMaj Mel Hoffman notes that participants spanning a wide level of physical ability are encouraged to take part. They can run, ruck (carry backpacks) or walk; the squats can be done with weights or without; teams are encouraged – for example, a team of seven might each take one round, relay style.

The WOD will take place at the River Falls High School starting at 9 a.m. on the 27^th. Hoffman points out that this is a community and family-friendly event. Participants of all ages are encouraged to attend. Those who register and donate to the Travis Manion Foundation will receive commemorative T-shirts. For more information and to pre-register, go to https://www.travismanion.org/events/manion-wod/2024-tmf-river-falls-chapter-and-tmf-pathfinder-club/

The Pathfinders are a River Falls-based leadership/character development program with military flair led by SGM (retired) Mel Hoffman, the American Legion Post 121 Honor Guard Commander.

Submitted by River Falls American Legion Post 121