The 9th annual 4Star 4Mile Race, set for Sunday, Nov. 10 in Detroit, offers an opportunity for the community to connect with veterans in a meaningful way. The race begins at Dean Savage Memorial Park and participants run alongside the Detroit Veterans Day Parade.
 
Doug Howell, a Vietnam War veteran and race director, founded the 4Star 4Mile Race after discovering the healing power of running as he dealt with PTSD. Howell began long-distance running as part of his own recovery, and his experience inspired him to create the event in 2016.  

He saw it as a way to help other veterans reconnect with a sense of community and purpose while also bringing community members closer to the experiences of those who served. Proceeds from the event benefit the Detroit Veterans Day Parade, supporting the annual celebration. The parade includes Medal of Honor recipients, marching bands, and other military tributes. 

One Detroit’s Will Glover spoke with Howell about the race, what led him to start and continue it annually, and how people can support veterans in their community.