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Veterans and military service members take part in the first day of a five-day, 100-mile hike across the Dallas area on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, in support of their brothers and sisters in arms who are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Semper Fi & America’s Fund was holding its seventh annual PTSD Century Hike. (Photo courtesy of Semper Fi & America’s Fund)
Episode 3262 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the 100 mile hike in Dallas to fight PTSD. The featured story is titled: Veterans embark on 100-mile hike to bring hope, support to those suffering from PTSD. It appeared on the News Channel 9 ABC in Chattanooga and was submitted by Cory Smith.
Smith reported that a determined group of veterans and active-duty service members undertook a five-day, 100-mile hike across the Dallas area to support fellow warriors battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The event, known as the seventh annual PTSD Century Hike, is organized by Semper Fi & America’s Fund and serves both as a fundraiser and a powerful platform to raise awareness about the invisible wounds of war.
Participants like former Army Ranger John Filipkowski shared deeply personal struggles with PTSD, describing daily battles with depression and the importance of staying mentally active. After 23 years of service and 11 combat deployments, Filipkowski suffered severe injuries in 2007 when an improvised explosive device threw him from a vehicle, leaving him with a traumatic brain injury. Despite ongoing challenges such as memory issues and nightmares, he credits the organization with helping him rebuild his life and regain purpose.
Retired Army trauma nurse Nekita Hunter also emphasized the value of physical activity, explaining how sports and events like the hike provide a healthy, medication-free outlet for managing mental health. Both veterans highlighted the sense of community and connection fostered by the program, which brings together individuals facing similar struggles.
For Filipkowski, the hike represents more than endurance—it’s a mission. By sharing his story and reaching out to others on a difficult path, he hopes to inspire fellow veterans to seek help and transform their challenges into strengths, just as he continues to do.
Listen to Episode 3262 and discover more about the 100 mile hike in Dallas to fight PTSD.
