Steel the mind: Monster Mash 2023 concludes as dedicated brothers-in-arms cross the finish line in Sheridan

After a 10-mile swim and an approximately 200 mile run/walk, participants of the Veterans Day Monster Mash arrived at 5:15 p.m. Nov. 9, at Grinnell Plaza, in Sheridan to a crowd of approximately 200 people. 

The Monster Mash runners punished their bodies and steeled their minds, to raise funds for The Invisible Wounds Foundation, an effort to end veteran and first responder suicides.

Five US Navy SEALs, one Army Green Beret, one Marine and a civilian –  began by being dropped from a helicopter in the cold November waters of the Bighorn. They then swam 10 miles and transitioned to an approximately 200 mile foot race all to raise funds in an effort to end veteran and first responder suicide. 

Brad Walden, co-founder of The Wyo. West Warrior Foundation and co-organizer of the Monster Mash told Sheridan Media although the mash was difficult, the team stuck together through all of the trials. 

B. Walden

The race began on Nov. 6, since that time, the runners have faced poor weather, a broken toe, a badly sprained ankle and many sore muscles.

On Nov. 9, they were given an escort by the Wyoming Highway Patrol, The Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office, the Sheridan Police Department and the Sheridan Fire Department through the city to Grinnell Plaza. 

These dedicated warriors were met at the finish line by their waiting families and grateful Sheridan residents.

INVI MindHealth Chief Executive Officer and former Navy Seal, Jonathan Wilson said the team’s morale was high but endeavors such as this, give a person plenty of time in their own mind.

J. Wilson

The team kept a good pace late into cold Wyoming nights, pushing themselves through weather, injuries and fatigue all in solidarity for their comrades in arms and first responders. 

J. Wilson 

But Wilson and Walden both wish the world to know that although we celebrate this monumental effort, made by these dedicated individuals, it’s all to raise funds and awareness of veteran and first responder suicide. 

J. Wilson 

Walden had a message for veterans and first responders who have endured feelings of isolation and may feel as if they must suffer alone. 

B. Walden 

For more information on The Wyo. West Warrior Foundation, click here. For more information on INVI MindHealth, click here. 

The Veterans Crisis Line is completely confidential. Dial 988, veterans press “1”.  Or you can talk via chat at www.veteranscrisisline.net. This site also includes additional information for veterans, family members and their friends.