Members of the Taft community honored the memory of Will Keys ’06 during a charity road race last weekend.
Organized by Will’s childhood friend, Courtney Strakosch, Run for the Heroes is the second annual Tree of Compassion Walk/Run 5k event; last year’s race raised more than $25,000 for ALS, Lou Gerhig’s Disease. This year, Courtney shifted the focus of the event to honoring our military heroes: proceeds from the race benefit the Fire Family Transport Fund and Hope for the Warriors.
Hope for the Warriors is a nationwide charity dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for U.S. service members and their families who have been adversely affected by injuries or death in the line of duty. Run for the Heroes dollars will purchase a van for the charity to help them transport soldiers and veterans with injuries or disabilities.
“The vehicle will be named for Will,” Courtney said. “Will was a true hero who loved America and knew he wanted to protect our country from the time he was a young boy. He was an incredible friend and son, and left an imprint with every person he has ever met.”
Earlier this year, Will died from injuries sustained in a car accident near his military base in North Carolina. Will joined the navy after graduating from Taft in 2006. He completed a two-year tour of duty at the Naval Medical Center, San Diego, before being deployed to Afghanistan, where he supported a combined anti-armor team. Upon his return to the US, Will transitioned to the Scout Sniper Platoon. In every assignment, Will was known for his high professional standards and exceptional rapport with his fellow soldiers.
“I am so proud to have raised a much loved human being who people want to honor,” said Will’s mother and Taft health services director Lisa Keys. “To all who love him and have so generously donated in Will's memory and support us in our sorrow I am thankful. It takes all I have to put one foot in front of the other and I could not do it without the support of the Taft community. When I think of Will’s death and the good it brings out in people to benefit others like him, those who love and protect their country, it is very humbling.”
Taft runners found the event to be a moving and extraordinary tribute to an exceptional young man. Four members of the Piacenza family ran locally, while two others ran in absentia in North Carolina and Washington DC.
“It was a special day,” said Jean Piacenza, Director of Counseling and Community Health. “My head was full of how precious William was and how his legacy of honor, courage, and commitment keeps spreading; and of course, how deeply he is missed.”