Team RWB kicks of Old Glory Relay in support of veterans’ health and wellness
Team Red, White & Blue’s (Team RWB) Old Glory Relay to The World Games, presented by Airbus kicked off on May 25, 2022 at the World War II Memorial in Washington, D. C.
An American flag that has flown over the U.S. Capitol Building began a 44-day journey, showcasing the strength, grit and commitment of American veterans. The flag will travel 3,100 miles through 15 states to its destination - the Opening Ceremony of The World Games.
The ceremony began with opening remarks by Mike Erwin, Team RWB’s Founder and Executive Director.
“This journey of the Old Glory Relay is something that defines what Team Red, White & Blue is all about - the grit and the perseverance and the teamwork of the military and veteran community, and when we come together, there are so many things that we can accomplish,” said Erwin.
In attendance was the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Denis McDonough, Senator Tommy Tuberville, Congresswoman Terri Sewell, The World Games 2022 CEO, Nick Sellers, Vice President and General Manager of Airbus, Daryl Taylor, Regional Marketing Director for BMW of North America, Curtis Snyder, and members of Team RWB.
“The American flag has always given hope to our country and to our world and it is our hope as we welcome over 3,600 of the best athletes in the world to Birmingham, Alabama for the fastest growing sports under the Olympic movement that the world can be unified for just a moment, as that flag runs into the [World Games] opening ceremony from American military hero Noah Galloway on live global television. As this flag is touched by thousands of our veterans, thousands of hands, one after another and it moves through community after community - it's our hope that it also touches some hearts along the way and we all realize and appreciate that this American flag continues to unify our country,” said Sellers.
After unfurling the flag, a group of veterans and supporters led by Secretary McDonough officially kicked off the relay with a ceremonial walk to the Lincoln Memorial where it was handed to the first runner and began its journey to Birmingham.
