Employees at work recently.

Jan B. Cook


Employees at work recently.

Photos: Operation WarriorFit and Jonathan G Milkovich

Day five of Operation Carolina ventured through Rutherford County on September 25 and 26.

Jonathan Milkovich, an Army veteran and wife Sabrina Shoaff, live in the mountains of western North Carolina. Jonathan started his run from one end of North Carolina to the other on September 21. He is executive director of the nonprofit Operation WarriorFit. The 700 mile solo run known as Operation Carolina started in the mountains in Cooper Basin at the North Carolina/Tennessee state line, and will finish at Harris Point, North Carolina on the Outer Banks.

On the way through Rutherford County, Operation WarriorFit stated: "Even after a bit of a rough night, Jonathan crushed his day today! Jonathan was able to steadily eat throughout the day which is awesome! Rutherfordton showed out for us, they came with flags to cheer him on! A much quieter day, but a great day overall!"

Operation WarriorFit aims to help foster community among Veterans, First Responders and Active Duty Service Members who may be experiencing struggles with mental health, loss of community, and desire for structure and routine. They help those who have served our country at home and abroad by creating communities across the country. They hope to raise $75,000 to help kickstart their efforts.

To follow the rest of Jonathan's 17 day journey visit Operation WarriorFit on Facebook.

For more information about Operation WarriorFit, visit www.operationwarriorfit.org.