Tour Of Duty

Hello

2010-11-17T09:54:00.001+11:00

Test Test

Crowds at Rally

2010-11-17T09:38:00.001+11:00

Joe - On the camping trail!

Location:Fernleigh Rd,Turvey Park,Australia

Hospital Visit Tomorrow

2010-11-17T09:37:00.001+11:00

Teat

Joe - On the camping trail!

And Another One!

2010-10-04T09:53:00.000+11:00

New Video now online

more each day this week!

Latest Video

2010-10-03T09:49:00.002+11:00

New Video now online

more each day this week!

Photo Galleries

2010-09-10T03:52:00.000+10:00

PHOTO GALLERIES FOR IPHONE AND IPAD

Help the Tour Of Duty

2010-09-03T11:17:00.001+10:00

Text FIRE to 35000 to donate $10

Blog Entries

2010-09-01T05:21:00.001+10:00

To keep up-to-date with all the action from the road, please visit the
Tour Of Duty - Run Across America Facebook
site and become a friend.

Blog Entries

2010-09-01T05:21:00.000+10:00

To keep up-to-date with all the action from the road, please visit the
Tour Of Duty - Run Across America Facebook
site and become a friend.

Media Coverage from Lewisville (Dallas)

2010-08-24T17:23:00.000+10:00

YOUTUBE

A Firefighter's Dream

2010-08-22T18:31:00.000+10:00

Listen to the Tour Of Duty poem ' A Firefighter's Dream by Rupert McCall

Firefighter of the Day: Kevin O'Connor

2010-08-19T02:45:00.009+10:00

Firefighter of the Day: Kevin O'Connor

FDNY Engine 37 Harlem
Status: Single (twin brother)
Nickname: Broseph

Broseph's Inspiration: the remembrance of 9/11 and how fire fighters from all over are getting together to contribute their time and feelings in the run across America so that 9/11 is still in our memories.

"That day... I remember kids had to leave school earlier because their parents worked in the city.

...I always wanted to be a part of NYC and be a part of FDNY so once 911 hit, it made me want to become a fireman that much more. What those guys did that day I knew I could not do any thing better with my self and make myself more proud and my family too.

What firefighters do every day helping people and doing the right thing so that when that happened (9/11) I knew my goal was to become a FDNY fire fighter."

We all agree Kevin O'Connor is a great asset to the 'Tour of Duty - Run Across America' team.

Help ignite Kevin's inspiration and get him to New York City
Sponsor a firefighter for as little as $1 donation.

The heat is on... and things turned... pink!

2010-08-19T01:40:00.003+10:00

Day 6 began with the blue team running the "graveyard" shift - midnight to 6am.

Spirits soared when Captain Hawk and his crew from Station 35 Phoenix Police Department extended a police escort with some joining in the run with the firefighters during the night. A cooked breakfast followed at the station and in a word was ...amazing!

The heat continued to test the firefighters limits in the desert today with temperatures consistently around 105F.

The red team took on the "hot" shift from midday to 6pm and that is when the day turned ...shades of pink and red!!!

The red team are known to "enjoy themselves" with their relaxed can-do-attitude... not reserved for the light hearted.

So it was no surprise to see the red team have fun beyond most people's expectations in the desert today....including the police escorts who were more than happy to go along with the fun.

Our first showing was Mr Russell "Foxxy" Fox wearing a Melbourne Devils outfit accompanied by teammate Ryan Green.

Next was Greg "The Rabbi" Matusoff & Mike "T-bird" Tagell who took it to a higher level than our first showing on catwalk "Highway 87"...wearing a pink tutu, pink feather boa and pink hard hat with the name emblazened "Demolition Devo"

.... and definitely a winning combination which won the police vote!

The day was complete when all firefighters arrived at Payson Fire Department, Arizona for a well earned rest after two hard days slogging it in the desert!

Phoenix Fire Department Dispatch Radio Call

2010-08-18T01:36:00.000+10:00

Listen to the Phoenix FD Dispatch radio message sent out this morning.
CLIUCK HERE FOR AUDIO

The Mohave desert turns on the heat...all the way to Phoenix, Arizona

2010-08-17T16:41:00.011+10:00

Day 5: The Mohave Desert turns on the heat!

Well the photo says it all.

New York Fire Department Firefighter, Brian O'Grady, or "BOG" as he is affectionately known seen above "warming up" for the changeover to the "hot shift" 12noon - 6pm.

The key for the firefighters running in the gruelling temperatures of 110F / 43C is hydrating big time with water, water, water and stretching before each of their 1 mile stints.

Into day 5 of the 31 day epic 7,500km journey to New York City; the teams are now working together and stepping up.

Roadside Cookout ... just like Mamma makes it!

2010-08-17T07:11:00.008+10:00

Day 5: Mohave Desert, Arizona

As the saying goes "you're a sight for sore eyes" and so it was when the fire fighters came across the roadside "cookout" prepared by volunteer cooks who joined us on the Tour of Duty - Run Across America

Let me introduce two amazing volunteer "COOKS": Grant "Roy" Rogers, Las Vegas Metro Police Department & Dallin van bus Kirk, Las Vegas 2010 High school graduate & current "Explorer" internship.

There is nothing like a home cooked meal to boost your energy reserves for running across the Arizona desert in 110F / 45C heat.

Everyone enjoyed the spaghetti bolognese and salad dinner...or should I say devoured!

Welcome onboard fellas!

Day in the Mohave Desert, Arizona

2010-08-17T02:59:00.012+10:00

Day 4: Tour of Duty - Run Across America

Each day (of the 31 day - 7,500km epic journey) begins with honouring sixteen (16) of the 411 fire fighters - first responders whose lives were tragically taken in the September 11 terrorist attacks on the world trade centre.

The Mohave Desert tested the 36 fire fighters who ran their hearts out in temperatures soaring 110F.

The fire fighters are a tough bunch but nothing touched their hearts more than a "roadside cookout" of spaghetti bolognese & salad.

NYFD James Dowdell (pictured above) thought it was "totally sick!"

Two young local Las Vegas men have volunteered their services as "cooks" joining the Tour of Duty - Run Across America. Yee-Ha!

Las Vegas Hospitality... second to none!

2010-08-17T02:41:00.006+10:00

Day 3: Tour of Duty Across America

Never a better way to recover from 24hrs running in 100F plus heat, than a hearty home made cooked meal made with LOVE by the local community church. A FEAST fit for a king, or should I say feast for 36 fire fighters, headed by Chief Josie was enjoyed at North Las Vegas Fire Station 53.

Thank you to Graeme Fay, Deputy Consul-General, Australian Consulate for hosting the pre-show cocktail party at the Aria Gold Lounge & "Chainsaws" wife for organising the Cirque de Soleil ELVIS Show tickets.

Again...another amazing experience! Las Vegas definitely lived up to it's reputation.

Las Vegas...experience of a lifetime!

2010-08-16T20:16:00.002+10:00

Day Two: Tour of Duty - Run Across America

The Australian & American fire fighters entered into the "desert" on day two of the 7,500km journey from Los Angeles to New York City where temperatures soared to 107F / 43C.

The hospitality of the Las Vegas Metro Police Department was unbelievable providing a police escort into the city of Las Vegas.

At 11.50pm the Metro Police again escorted the fire fighters as they departed from the "Welcome to fabulous Las Vegas Nevada" meeting point running the 8-mile / 14km famous Las Vegas strip. The public came out in the thousands cheering them on all the way.

Once reaching the Fremont Casino the fire fighters were given a suprise gift: A montage collation of each of their profile and team pictures played with the theme song from "Rocky"... (check out the video below).

... a Las Vegas experience of a life time ending at 2.30am!

Las Vegas Strip Experience of a lifetime!

2010-08-16T19:25:00.005+10:00

Jerry Lewis WOW's us all!!!

2010-08-16T18:08:00.006+10:00

Day Two: Tour of Duty - Run Across America

Tour of Duty - USA Ambassador, Jerry Lewis welcomed the fire fighter runners into Las Vegas in true style normally accustomed for famous people. Jerry happily posed for photos, joked with everyone and made us all feel right at home in Las Vegas.

Live GPS Tracking now available

2010-08-16T17:53:00.000+10:00

GPS TRACKING

Tour Of Duty gets huge US media attention

2010-08-13T19:30:00.001+10:00

A moments silence to remember those who lost their lives on 911

Location:E Main St,Barstow,United States

The Tour Of Duty has started

2010-08-13T05:16:00.001+10:00

After years of planning, at 0846 this morning, the Tour Of Duty left Santa Monica Pier on the epic journey across the USA. Hundreds of well wishes, firefighters, police, media and officials met and joined in as the team paid their respects to 16 of those that tragically lost their lives on 911. The runners are currently half way out of Los Angeles with full police escorts, dozens of fire trucks and hundreds of firefighters joining the crowds of well wishes along the route.

Location:Huntington Dr,Alhambra,United States

Behind the Scenes in LA Video

2010-08-12T17:31:00.000+10:00

Behind the Scenes video now available

Latest News Coverage

2010-08-11T21:09:00.000+10:00

Aussie firefighters run across US in 9/11 tribute
Thirroul dad to run across US
Michael's Tour of Duty
Firefighter heading to 9/11
Lest we forget: firies' 9/11 tribute run

Jeff Fenech loves the Tour

2010-08-09T19:55:00.000+10:00

The Tour keeps gathering followers

From the TOD iPhone 4

Location:Mascot,Australia

Worn out already!

2010-08-09T17:14:00.001+10:00

On the way to the airport!

From the TOD iPhone 4

Location:General Holmes Dr,Mascot,Australia

Boys enjoy a Latte

2010-08-09T08:48:00.000+10:00

From the TOD iPhone 4

Location:Richmond Ave,Willoughby,Australia

Team arrive at Nine Studios

2010-08-09T08:17:00.001+10:00

From the TOD iPhone 4

Location:Artarmon Rd,Willoughby,Australia

A Tribute

2010-08-09T07:18:00.000+10:00

PLAY VIDEO

Hot foot across the USA

2010-08-09T06:40:00.000+10:00

LISTEN TO INTERVIEW
Fire fighters are pretty tough . No argument. But one Canberra Fire Fighter is about to show they are tough and compassionate all in one package.
Johnny McGirr will join 15 other Australian Firies and 16 of their US counterparts to run from Santa Monica Pier on the west coast to the World Trade Centre site in New York arriving on September 11 to mark the anniversary of the terror attacks on the city.
The event, known as the "Tour of Duty 2010" is a show of fraternity with the American firefighters and the 343 who died on that day in 2001.
Before pulling on his running shoes Johnny McGirr came onto the 666 Drive program to talk with Louise Maher.

Closing Home Doors by Trudy Papalia

2010-08-09T06:38:00.000+10:00

COURAGEOUSLY LEAVING AUSTRALIAS PEACEFUL SHORES
YOU ALL LEAVE WITH A HEART OF DETERMINATION
TO BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY WITH A GRIVING NATION
RUNNING MILE AFTER MILE WITH YOUR AMERICAN BROTHERS
AS THEY HURT FOR THOSE LOST CHILDREN, SIBLINGS, PARTNERS, FATHERS AND MOTHERS
WE WILL PRAY
THAT WITH EACH POUND OF YOUR FOOT EVERY SINGLE NIGHT AND DAY
BRINGS YOU CLOSER TO YOUR HOME
AND THROUGH THOSE TIMES YOU MAY FEEL SO ALONE
WHEN YOUR SPIRITA ARE WEAK, IN YOUR HEARTS LET YOUR FAMILIES SPEAK
‘YOU CAN DO IT’…….
AND WHEN AT TIMES THOSE ROADS JUST SEEM TO GO ON FOREVER
AND YOU WANT TO GIVE UP…REMEMBER YOU SAID ‘NEVER’
AND AS THE SUN BURNS YOUR SKIN,
HOLD ONTO THE PASSION WITHIN
CAUSE WE BELIEVE IN YOU..
THOUGH THERE MAY BE TIMES WHEN YOU DOUBT ALL THAT YOU ARE
FEEL THE LOVE CIRCLE YOUR PAINFUL BODYAS WE MISS YOU FROM AFAR
WE CANNOT COUNT THE COST OR THE TEARS, THE POTENTIAL OF ALL THOSE LIVES THAT WERE LOST
BUT YOU GUYS ARE ALIVE…YOU BREATHE, YOU SHARE IN YOUR BROTHERS PAIN
NOT FOR GLORY, NOT FOR HONOUR, NOT FOR STATUS OR FAME
BUT IN A SAFER FUTURE FOR ALL CHILDREN …YOU BELIEVE
AND THE LOVE
IN THE BONDS YOU WILL FORM AND THE LEGACY YOU WILL LEAVE
FOR NO GREATER LOVE IS THERE MY FRIEND THAT THE LOVE FOR ANOTHER
AS YOU CHOOSE TO PUT ALL THAT YOU ARE ON THE LINE FOR YOUR BROTHER
NOW GO ON THIS EXCITING JOURNEY AND DON’T LOOK BEHIND
JUST KNOW THAT WE ARE WITH YOU
ALL THE WAY
ALL THE TIME…
WE PRAY YOU ARE GIVEN THE COURAGE AND THE STRENGTH TO SUCCEED
AND THE MEMORIES OF YOUR HOMES AND FAMILY WILL GUIDE YOU WHEN YOU ARE IN NEED
SHARE BEERS AND STORIES, LAUGHTER AND TEARS AND SHAKE MANY HANDS
AND SHOW THEM YOUR ‘MATESHIP’ AS YOU RUN THEIR HOT LANDS..
SHOW THEM THAT AUSSIE SPIRIT….THAT THE ANZACS SHOWED US
AND IN THE GOD WHO WILL KEEP YOU SAFE AND GUIDE YOU
PLACE ALL OF YOUR TRUST

City to Surf

2010-08-08T09:45:00.001+10:00

Team complete city to surf run

Location:Queen Elizabeth Dr,Bondi Beach,Australia

Team Arrive in Sydney

2010-08-07T12:15:00.000+10:00

Ben Schmidt holding the Tour Of Duty helmet

Location:Keith Smith Ave,Sydney Domestic Airport,Australia

Firefighters run across US to honour Sept 11 victims

2010-08-07T07:25:00.000+10:00

A Northern Territory firefighter running from Los Angeles to New York to remember those killed in the September 11 attacks says it will be an emotional experience.
Ben Schmidt is one of 16 Australian firefighters doing the run across the United States, running six hours each, every 12 hours, non-stop for 30 days.
He leaves for the US on Monday and will be thinking of the 343 firefighters who were killed nine years ago as he runs into New York.
"I'm incredibly proud and privileged," he said.
To be able do it to recognise the sacrifice that those emergency service workers made means a lot to me as an emergency service worker, as a firefighter in the Northern Territory.
"So to be able to do that and say look we're thinking of you and this is how we'd like to remember your sacrifice, it's pretty special."
By Phoebe Stewart ABC Darwin

Evans Evans Official Flag Suppliers

2010-08-07T07:16:00.000+10:00

Rob Evans from Evan Evans group has kindly donated the Tour of Duty flags for the run.
http://www.evanevans.com.au/

Australia wide Skype Call

2010-08-02T23:02:00.000+10:00

The Tour Of Duty team had an Australia wide Skype call this evening. As the event kick-off gets closer, final plans are being checked and tweaked. With the team arriving in Sydney on Saturday, media interest is growing, and the anticipation is growing.

Marathon firies honour those lost in 9/11 tragedy

2010-07-31T14:01:00.000+10:00

IT will be with fire in their bellies and respect high for lost brothers that Australian firefighters embark on a marathon run across America to commemorate the September 11 terrorist atrocities.

Firefighters are a brotherhood of men and women who eat, sleep and work side by side and to touch one is to tamper with all.
"Firefighters in Australia and around the world watched horrified and aghast as the twin towers tragedy unfolded and we probably had a better sense than most of what was unfolding in front of our eyes," said Tour of Duty organiser and Windsor fireman Paul Ritchie.
"This run has been years in the planning and many, many months in the making and it is our way of making a statement about mateship, camaraderie and respect."
Sixteen Australian firefighters will join 16 of their US brothers and sisters to run 7600km from Santa Monica in Los Angeles to New York.
With five male and one female firefighters from Victoria joining comrades from other Australian states, the team expects to arrive at the World Trade Centre site exactly nine years to the day after planes crashed into the twin towers on September 11, 2001, forever changing the world.
The mostly super-fit officers from the MFB and CFA have been in serious training for more than 15 months.
"We'll be hitting temperatures of up to 50C through some desert areas so the back-up and logistics have been meticulous to ensure we all make it," Mr Ritchie said.
The marathon will double as a charity run, with Australians encouraged to donate to worthwhile US causes.
The National September 11 Memorial & Museum, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund are among organisations to benefit.
The team will run the marathon in their own holiday time, leaving their families at home.
"It's a national event with runners representing brigades in all states in Australia," Mr Ritchie said.
"Firefighting is a unique brotherhood with fireys eating, sleeping and working together, relying on each other and able to go to any station anywhere in the world and being made to feel welcome."
Patron of the run is John Howard, former Australian prime minister who happened to be in America when the terrorists struck and who will welcome the runners when they arrive at the finish line.
The marathon will set off at 8.46am on August 12, the time the first plane struck the first tower nine years earlier.
The 32 runners expect to cross the US continent in 27 days. Gerry Ryan from Jayco has donated six campervans to back up the tour.
Other corporations and individuals are invited to back the brigade with fuel, food and other support costs, which are likely to be crippling once the team hits the road.
Story by Kelly Ryan Herald Sun

Viva Elvis!

2010-07-31T12:17:00.001+10:00

Viva Elvis! Join us for a fantastic night at the Aria Resort and Casino in fabulous Las Vegas to experience Viva Elvis by Cirque De Soleil. Just click the photo for tickets.

What Does it Take to run across America?

2010-07-29T16:34:00.000+10:00

A story of one fireys challenge - Greg Matusoff - New Orleans Fire Fighter
Here is my story of this year building up to now, this has been one hell of a year for me, just battling to get healthy has been an incredible challenge.
  On January 17th of this year I was out on a 40 mile training ride, and had a bad bike wreck in which I fractured my scapula and shattered the Glenoid( part of the scapula inside the rotator cup) 3 days later Jan. 20th was my 40th birthday( my goal prior to the injury was to be in the best physical shape of my life at the time of my birthday) I had several races lined up for the year and was in the best race shape of my life.
  On Jan. 26th, after 9 days of not being able to move the entire left side of my body, I went in for surgery and spent the next few days recovering in the hospital, after being released I spent the next week not being able to sleep and that is when I decided that no matter how much pain I was in, I was going get back to where I was prior to the wreck, and return to work as quickly as possible,
  In the beginning of Feb., I started physical therapy, and it was well into March before I could really even start to move my arm, that month was the most useless I have ever felt, and the pain was incredibly intense.
  Feb 13th, after struggling with hard core cabin fever, I ran the Mardi Gras Marathon, strapped my arm up, it did not matter how much pain I was in, and set off on the first run I had done since the surgery, a little over 6 hrs later I crossed the finish line, that day was the first day I had left the house to do anything except for physical therapy, and it was glorious, it felt so good to be in the land of the living again, that day is when I knew I was going to get myself ready and do the New Orleans half Ironman just 2 months later.
  April 18th, after 2 months of training and extensive physical therapy everyday, I took part in the Half ironman and did surprisingly better than I thought I would, another benchmark day for me, thus lifting my spirits and my desire to continue on.
  May 2nd, just 14 days later I competed in Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon, and got my best swim ever, finished the 1.5 mile swim in just 32 minutes.
  A few more days later I returned to New Orleans where I continued to train and do physical therapy, as the next obstacle to overcome was to be physically healthy and strong enough to be medically cleared to go back to work.
  About a month later and tons of hours spent training and physical therapy I was granted permission to return to work
  June 6th, First shift back at the Engine House, and according to my surgeon a few months earlier than what he had projected.
  Mid June I received a phone call asking me if I wanted to be part of The Tour Of Duty-Run Across America, and since that day I have been preparing myself to be physically ready for this incredible event. I am looking forward to the next part of this amazing journey I am going through this year, the next stage will start the morning of Aug. 9th when I step on the plane to fly out to LA to meet up with my fellow teammates thus bringing me one step closer to NY. I am so lucky to have the opportunity to be a part of something that is bigger than all of us.

John Howard - Australian Patron - Celebrates Birthday!

2010-07-26T19:46:00.000+10:00

John Winston Howard, AC (born 26 July 1939) was the 25th Prime Minister of Australia, from 11 March 1996 to 3 December 2007. He was the second-longest serving Australian Prime Minister after Sir Robert Menzies.
▪ Recognised as Australian Father of the Year in 1997
▪ Awarded the Centenary Medal on 1 January 2001[104]
▪ Awarded the Star of the Solomon Islands together with Prime Minister of New Zealand Helen Clark on 15 June 2005 for their respective roles in restoring law and order in the Solomon Islands[105] This award allows him to use the post-nominal letters "SSI"[106]
▪ Received the Woodrow Wilson Award from the Woodrow Wilson Center of the U.S. Smithsonian Institution on 22 August 2005 in Sydney
▪ B'nai B'rith International bestowed its Presidential Gold Medal on Howard in May 2006[107]
▪ Irving Kristol Award, the highest award of the American Enterprise Institute, 5 March 2008[108]
▪ Common Wealth Award of Distinguished Service in Government, 6 April 2008[109]
▪ Appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia in the 2008 Queen's Birthday Honours list "for distinguished service to the Parliament of Australia, particularly as Prime Minister and through contributions to economic and social policy reform, fostering and promoting Australia's interests internationally, and the development of significant philanthropic links between the business sector, arts and charitable organisations."[110]
▪ Received honorary doctorate from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in December 2008 for "outstanding statesmanship and leading role on the world stage in promoting democracy and combating international terrorism" and his "remarkable understanding of, and exceptional support for, the State of Israel and his deep friendship with the Australian Jewish community"[111]
▪ Awarded the United States Presidential Medal of Freedom on 13 January 2009 by President George W. Bush[112]
▪ Honorary doctorate from Bond University, 14 February 2009[113]
▪ His portrait, by Australian artist Shen Jiawei, was hung in the Members' Hall of the Australian Parliament House in 2010 as part of the Historic Memorials Collection

iPhone access to all the photos!

2010-07-23T06:49:00.000+10:00

VIEW GALLERY

Along with the Daily Highlights and the Location aware galleries, you can now view all the photos from the Tour Of Duty.

Rockers Roll Out for the Tour Of Duty

2010-07-22T22:33:00.000+10:00

Rock legends Molly Meldrum and Russell 'The Real Thing' Morris joined up with Tour of Duty event director Paul 'Lionel' Ritchie to shoot a special interview for our website. Meldrum and Morris are planning to be in New York to take part in a special post run concert fundraiser.

NY Daily News Article

2010-07-22T22:14:00.000+10:00

Tour of Duty run across 20 states in 31 days honors the fallen of Sept. 11

Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/brooklyn/2010/07/20/2010-07-20_crosscountry_run_recalls_911_heroes.html#ixzz0uPeY3UDL

Hey Hey Its Saturday

2010-07-21T23:06:00.000+10:00

The boys were featured on Hey Hey Its Saturday tonight (Wednesday!) and spent some quality time with Mega Star Kylie Minogue! More photos in the photo gallery and check out the video as well in the video gallery

New Promo Video

2010-07-21T11:05:00.000+10:00

As the event draws nearer, we are starting to ramp up the media. Have a look at the new Intro Promo Teaser.

Pierce to the rescue!

2010-07-16T20:11:00.000+10:00

The Pierce 'Tour Of Duty' fire engine is ready to roll!

Welcome to Tour Of Duty

2010-07-12T11:13:00.000+10:00

In 2010 members of the Australian Fire Services with their colleagues, will run from Los Angeles to New York, finishing at the World Trade Center site to commemorate 9/11.
The route will pass through Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Arizona, Albuquerque, Oklahoma, Houston, New Orleans, Mississippi, Memphis, St. Louis, Chicago, Washington, Baltimore, Pennsylvania and New York.
Each dawn of the 31-day journey will be dedicated to the individuals whose lives were tragically taken in their tour of duty. Funds raised will be donated to charities nominated by the Firefighters and Emergency Services of America.
This run is a statement of hope for the future of a world consumed by financial gloom and terrorist alerts. This run reflects the better values of humanity, mateship, camaraderie and self-sacrifice.

iPhone App Now Available!

2010-07-12T10:28:00.000+10:00

The Tour Of Duty iPhone app is now available to download to iTunes or direct to your iPhone. Click on the link or search for Tour Of Duty in the iTunes App store. The iPhone app features all the news, videos, photos, runners and more direct to the iPhone. When the run is actually under way, there will be location awareness and live video streaming direct to the iPhone. We are currently looking for a sponsor for the app, so get the word out there by sharing the link around.

Jerry Lewis is on the Team

2010-07-10T09:27:00.000+10:00

Jerry Lewis has gracefully agreed to be the US Ambassador of The Tour Of Duty. Jerry, has had a long and successful career as a comedian, actor, film producer, writer, film director and singer. Jerry is also the US national chairman of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and was recently in Australia promoting his charity and spent time in Melbourne and Sydney with Vic and NSW firefighters. Jerry has a proud relationship with US firefighters. Jerry has been an active fund raiser for many charities and is thrilled to be associated with The Tour of Duty and the 'firefighter fellowship'. Jerry will be waiting in Las Vegas and we are looking forward to shaking his hand.

A Sacred Duty Honoring the Fallen

2010-07-10T09:26:00.000+10:00

Every now and then there comes a cause, that at the fire service, all firefighters just have to get behind and support 100% The Tour of Duty Run is one of those events. The Tour of Duty Run is a journey that will end in New York City, early on the morning of September 11 2010. The fire-fighters of America and Australia are coming together as allies to remember our fallen colleagues, our brothers and sisters, our murdered citizens, our family. The run is being organized by a bunch of Australian firefighters who plan on running coast-to-coast across America to honor the fallen of 9/11.
The run is dedicated to the memory of all who are among fallen of that horribly infamous day. First and foremost the purpose and intent, to honor their sacrifice, respect their courage, and appreciate their commitment to service and devotion to duty. The run is dedicated to; remember them and their humanity. It is also being done with an understanding that so many people have suffered and are suffering to this day, the survivors, the loved ones left behind, the workers involved in reclaiming the World Trade Centre Site, the families, friends and co workers of the passengers and crews of the American Airlines and United Airlines Flights.

It is our duty, our responsibility, our sacred honor to remember what happened on September 11. The run is an opportunity to acknowledge the sacrifices, courage and commitment that is exemplified by emergency services globally. Every day on every continent people are giving of their lives, risking their lives so our world can be a safer place. The military, police, fire and medical services represent just some of the people that give of themselves, so others may live a better life, their service can never be underestimated.

The run will begin on August 12. The runners will begin from the Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles at 8.46 a.m. you have a chance to share the journey, to remember the people that have suffered and are suffering still. If you just like to make a donation to the runners or buy a T-shirt go to www.tourofdutyrun.com
If you're a runner check out their route it's available on their website and you're welcome to join in at any time they are looking for some folks out of the Chicagoland area anyone out of the DC area and also we still need runners from California in particular Santa Monica or any of the departments in the immediate area. I plan on joining them in California and Oklahoma City.

Currently the organizers are planning a few overnight stops on August 14 in Las Vegas, August 22nd in Oklahoma. August 26th in New Orleans, September 1 in Chicago in September 7 in Washington DC. Now I can tell you from experience at FDIC that these Aussies do enjoy an occasional beer or 12 in order to relax. Go to their site for more information if you're in one of those cities plan on buying the boys a beer.
I can't emphasize how important it is to support these guys, I can't ask you to run but I am. I can ask you to donate but I plan on doing so. Let's get behind these guys let's make sure that we always remember what happened on that awful day. Let's never let anyone ever forget the bravery of Americans and the cowardice of our enemies.

Nick Beattie - Mercury article

2010-07-10T09:25:00.000+10:00

Tour of Duty breakfast

2010-07-05T20:57:00.000+10:00

(FUNDRAISING for the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation Children's Burns Unit). The Tour of Duty breakfast next Friday will feature firefighter and competitor Brad Hosking, who will be competing in the Busselton Half Ironman wearing his firefighting gear in the run leg.

He will also take part in a 7000km journey across the United States later this year, to honor emergency service workers, raise awareness for them and raise funds for the charity.

He will speak at the breakfast, at the Goose Restaurant at 7.30am, with a question and answer session from professional triathlete Mitch Anderson and Tri Event's David Budge followed by the elite athletes' press conference.

To buy tickets for the breakfast visit www.busseltonhalf. com or for more information about the Tour of Duty, visit www.tourofduty.com.au or www.everydayhero.com.au/todrun

Fired up for 9/11 - WA joins US charity run

2010-07-05T20:56:00.000+10:00

SIXTEEN Australian firefighters are swapping their overalls and boots for lycra and joggers in a bid to run across the US in 31 days.

The team of firemen and one woman, including one from WA, will participate in a charity run from Los Angeles to New York.

The Forrest Gump-style journey will finish at Ground Zero at 8.46am on September 11 - exactly nine years after the terror attacks that shocked the world.

WA entrant Brad Hosking, from FESA's Osborne Park fire station, said: "It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and leans towards my strength, which is running.

"The purpose is three-fold: to honour the 411 emergency service workers who were killed on September 11 and ensure their sacrifices will never be forgotten; to raise public awareness of the role emergency services play; and to raise donations for charitable institutions here and in the US."

Mr Hosking said the money raised by each runner from Australia would go towards their charity of choice.

"I picked the Princess Margaret Children's Hospital burns unit," he said.

In Melbourne, firefigher Rachael Cowling said: "I am working with such a fantastic group of guys, I don't even notice I'm the only girl."

Her training partner, Tony Martin, said the trip was forming everlasting partnerships across the world.

"We want to show our support for our friends who lost their lives. I call them our friends because we share the same uniform and we look after partnerships across the world.

"We want to show our support for our friends who lost their lives. I call them our friends because we share the same uniform and we look after each other," Mr Martin said.

The Tour of Duty event has already gained the support of Australian actor Hugh Jackman, as well as Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.

"Whether it is in combating the worst global economic recession in 75 years, or fighting the horrific Black Saturday bushfires, Australians reach out and dig deep to help," Mr Rudd said.

The Tour of Duty will kick off in Los Angeles on August 12. Runners will pass the country's biggest tourist attractions before making a solemn entrance into New York.

Brad fired to run in memory

2010-06-29T20:17:00.001+10:00

FIREMAN Bradley Hosking has been selected as one of 18 Australian firefighters to take part in a 26-day nonstop relay run from Los Angele s to New York, finishing at Ground Zero at 8.46am on September 11, the exact minute the first plane struck tower one in 2001.
The Tour of Duty run was developed by Melbourne - based firefighter Paul Ritchie and comprised mainly Victorian firefighters, but the offer was extended to one eligible firefighter from each state in Australia to take part.
Mr Hosking, of Padbury, is serving in "A" platoon at Osborne Park Fire Station and has been with the WA Fire and Rescue Service for the past 17 years.
On August 12, he will join his fellow Australian and US firefighters, representing WA in the 7394km run across 16 states, which will reflect the spirit of brotherhood, mateship and camaraderie embodied across the fire services worldwide.
To be selected for this event, Mr Hosking had to address 10 criteria, but he said it was worth all the hardwork and training, as it would be "an opportunity of a lifetime".
"Each day of this epic journey will be dedicated to the people who tragically died on that fateful day," he said.
"The purpose of the run is to honour the 411 emergency service workers who gave heir lives on that tragic day, to raise the awareness of the roles that emergency service workers play in society andto raise donations for charities in Australia and in the US," he said.
Mr Hosking said he chose to raise money for the Princess Margaret Hospital children's burns unit.
"Like most firefighters and fathers alike, the plights of children cut deep into my soul and none more so than that of a child who is experiencing the intense suffering associated with being burnt," he said.
Mr Hosking credited his wife Sonja and daughters Kirra (6) and Jess (5) for their support and encouragement.
To help raise more money for his chosen charity, Mr Hosking ran the Busselton Half Ironman Triathlon on May 1 in his firefighting gear.
Anyone who wants to donate to the cause can visit www.absolutehero.com.au/todrun.
'16 Each day of this epic journeywill be dedicated to the people who tragically died on that fateful day'

Maroondah / Yarra Ranges Journal - Firefighters en route to Ground Zero

2010-06-29T20:17:00.000+10:00

FIREFIGHTERS are used to running into burning buildings but, despite months of training and preparation, running across the US will be a challenge.
Melbourne Fire Brigade station officer Tony Martin, of Scoresby, and leading firefighter Russell Fox are two of the seven Victorian firefighters making the 27-day, 7433-kilometre journey from Los Angeles to New York to remember those who were killed in the September 11 terrorist attacks. The Tour of Duty - supported by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, and whose patron is former prime minister John Howard - begins on August 12 and finishes at 'ground zero', the base of the World Trade Centre, at 8.46am on September 11.

The Australian contingent of 16 firefighters will join 16 American firefighters on the road to New York. "It's about us showing support for them," Mr Martin said. Regulars in firefighting fun runs, he and Mr Fox are unsure how they are going to react to running into downtown New York. "I'm emotional at the best of times," Mr Martin said. "Everybody in the world knows what they were doing on that fateful day. It's moments like these you never forget."

The firefighters will run for six hours in groups of 10 through cities including Las Vegas, Phoenix, Albuquerque, Oklahoma, Dallas, Houston, Memphis, St Louis, Milwaukee, Chicago, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Washington DC, Baltimore and Philadelphia.

A Yarra Valley winery is also supporting the event. Rochford Wines' general manager of major events Graham Taylor is looking at options for an concert-style event later in the year to support the Tour of Duty.

Donations can be made to the Tour of Duty. The Victorian contingent is directing the funds to The Alfred hospital's burns unit.

How did we get here?

2010-06-28T09:08:00.007+10:00

On Thursday August 12th 2010 at precisely 8.46 AM the Tour of Duty run will make its way from the Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles, aiming to arrive in New York City on September 11th 4,600 miles and 31 days later, it is a journey that we are very much looking forward to.
The beginnings of this run, this event, go back many years. The Melbourne members of the Tour of Duty team have been participating in, and organising road running events since 1983, claiming the World record for marathon relay road running whilst circumnavigating Australia in 1983 (15,600KMs), then again in 1991, increasing that record to 17,500KMs. It is a long and proud History.
More recently members of this group have participated in the organisation and running of the "ANZAC" runs, 2005, 06 and 07, from The Australian War Museum in Canberra to the Melbourne Cricket Ground, 1,100 Kms covered in three days, culminating on Anzac Day. The Anzac (Australian & New Zealand Army Corps ) runs were held to pay respect to the fallen soldiers that have given of their lives to defend our country and heritage. A natural progression of these runs was "The Great Anzac Run" (visit www.thegreatanzacrun.com), the groups first International run, an event to raise awareness of "The Anzac Spirit" this run conducted in 2008, covered over 4,000kms, from Anzac Cove, Gallipoli, Turkey to The Australian War Memorial, Hyde Park Corner London. More so than ever, as much as these events are about raising financial funds to assist people in need, there was also an emotional attachment, the awareness. To have run from Gallipoli and travelled through France, to have witnessed the battlefields, the cemeteries and monuments, to see first hand the sacrifices these people made decades before, to see the love and respect that these people are still accorded to this very day, to see Australia’s History overseas and the impact that the service of ordinary people, thrown into extraordinary circumstances made on the World was all at once, a humbling and proud experience.
This journey through Europe could not have been achieved without the assistance of the global community of fire-fighters, it is a family like no other. Throughout Europe we shared the hospitality and kindness of fire-fighters that made that event possible, we learnt that fire-fighters across the globe are so very much alike, in so many ways. Quick to lend a hand, share the load, a joke and a laugh. The willingness to serve and the call to duty is universal.
We also remember that on September 11, 2001, that we sensed and felt the pain of our brothers on the other side of the globe, that part of our family was hurting, that the good people of this World that choose to serve were being transgressed sinfully, tragically. That men and women that answer the call to duty, that live their lives selflessly for others every day, that believe it is their duty is to serve, would fall on this day, would not go home, would leave behind loved ones, would make the ultimate sacrifice. It is this awareness of family and the understanding of the wider global community of people that sacrifice their lives through service that initiated The Tour of Duty.
The Tour of Duty Run is an emotional statement. It is the coming together of Australian and American fire-fighters, police officers, military personnel and emergency service workers. We run to remember the people of 9 11, to honour their sacrifice, their courage, their devotion and commitment to duty. Every step of this run is a part of our statement, however humble, that their commitment to duty, to service, will never be forgotten.
We run, We remember………

The Facts - Tour of Duty

2010-06-28T09:08:00.005+10:00

On September the 11th 2001, the world watched as one, in shock, as a series of coordinated suicide attacks were launched upon the United States. On that morning 19 terrorists hijacked four commercial passenger jet liners, two of which were intentionally crashed into the Twin towers of the World Trade Centre in New York City. The hijackers crashed a third airliner into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, just outside Washington, D.C. The fourth plane crashed into a field near Shanksville in rural Pennsylvania after passengers and crew attempted to retake control of the plane. American Airlines Flights 11 and 77, United Airlines Flight 175 and 93 had become the weapons of destruction for the terrorists. There were no survivors from any of the flights.
The death toll of the attacks was 2,973. Overwhelmingly the majority of casualties were civilians, representing the citizens of over 90 countries.
As the chaos erupted at the World Trade Centre, as civilians fled in fear in search of safety, instinctively wanting to survive, the Emergency Service Workers of New York City responded to the scene, they willingly walked in to fulfil their duty, to serve their community.
A total of 411 emergency service workers lives were taken as they responded to the scene. The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) lost 343 Fire-fighters. The New York City Police Department lost 23 officers. The Port Authority Police Department lost 37 officers, and 8 additional Emergency Medical Paramedics from Private Emergency Medical Support units were killed. The City of New York had suffered immensely, the attacks had an immediate and overwhelming effect on the people of this City and the people of America, this was a crime against humanity.
The Tour of Duty Run is a journey that will end in New York City, early on the morning of September 11 2010. The fire-fighters and emergency service workers of America and Australia will come together as allies to remember our fallen colleagues, our brothers and sisters, our family.
We run to remember them. First and foremost this is our purpose and intent, to honour their sacrifice, respect their courage, and appreciate their commitment to service and devotion to duty. To remember them and their humanity. We also begin this journey with an understanding that so many people have suffered and are suffering to this day, the survivors, the loved ones left behind, the workers involved in reclaiming the World Trade Centre Site, the families, friends and co workers of the passengers and crews of the American Airlines and United Airlines Flights, the emotional and physical scars of this attack are devastating and potentially far more reaching than we can imagine. It has changed our world, irreversibly, forever.
It is our duty to remember what happened on September 11 and reinforce all that is good about humanity.
We also see the run as an opportunity to acknowledge emergency services globally. Every day on every continent people are giving of their lives, risking their lives so our world can be a safer place. The military, police, fire and medical services represent just some of the people that give of themselves, so others may live a better life, their service can never be underestimated.
Our journey begins on August the 12th, we fill our shoes and start to run from the Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles at 8.46 a.m., we ask you to share our journey, to remember with us, our family, the people that have suffered and are suffering still, and the people globally that have served and will continue to serve to make our world a better place. Share this run, via the web and if we happen to be anywhere near your ballpark, fill your shoes and share the load, run with us and remember.

Event Patron - Rt. Hon. John Howard

2010-06-28T09:08:00.003+10:00

Few leaders can identify in their tenure an event of such magnitude that it truly changed the course of history, and even fewer can attest to being at that event.
On the morning of September 11, 2001, I was preparing for a media conference in the offi ces of the Australian Embassy in Washington, when the terrible news of the first attack on the World Trade Center filtered through. Initially I thought it was a terrible accident, however events moved at pace and, with the attack on tower two and the subsequent explosion at the Pentagon, it became apparent that America was under attack, and by a quirk of fate the leader of one of the US's staunchest allies was in the midst of it.

I was scheduled to speak at a joint sitting of the US Congress the next day, an opportunity that could not go ahead. I instead went to Congress to express Australia's support, and my entourage was the only party allowed into the chamber. The emotion of the moment and shared grief left an indelible mark upon my consciousness, for the September 11 attack was not just on America, but on all things that our great freedom-loving societies stand for, as subsequent attacks have shown.
The US-Australian alliance has transcended the test of time. We stood side by side in all the major conflicts of the 20th century, endured depressions and the tribulation of worldwide natural disasters, and together we faced and defeated the scourges of totalitarian ideologies of the 20th century. I knew at that moment that together again we would have to face an even more invidious challenge, that of religious extremism in the 21st century.
The Los Angeles to New York 2010 run is a practical reflection of the values and the aspirations that two great freedom-loving societies enjoy. The run rejects the notions of exclusion, of hatred and above all of extreme ideologies. The run rather embraces the enlightenment of life, its liberties and freedom's and it rejoices in the goodness that is the essence of the human race. But ultimately it honours the brave men and women of the emergency services who sacrificed their futures on that fateful day to ensure that others could live: the very embodiment of those values.
I am honoured to be the Patron of this run and to support the endeavours and exertions of committed firefighters from Australia and the US who have undertaken it, to ensure that the sacrifice and suffering of that fateful day will not fade into the history books.