Heroes on the Hill Raises Mental Health Awareness for Veterans, First Responders in Minnesota

The Heroes on the Hill event in Burnsville, Minnesota, brings together veterans, first responders, and civilians for a 12-hour endurance run up Buck Hill to raise awareness and funds for mental health services tailored to these groups. Co-founder Julie Pagano highlights the event's role in encouraging movement as medicine and fostering supportive connections among participants, while raising money for the SEAL Foundation and Heroes Helping Heroes. Mental health remains a critical concern for service members and first responders, often hindered by stigma and financial barriers, as noted by participants like firefighter Josh Kuhn. The Military Health System, under leaders like Dr. Stephen Ferrara, prioritizes delivering high-quality care and support to warfighters and their families, emphasizing the importance of understanding local needs through facility visits. Research published in 2025 underscores the prevalence of combat-related PTSD among U.S. service members and veterans, further emphasizing the need for targeted mental health interventions. Additionally, military health clinics such as the Reynolds Army Health Clinic offer accessible mental health services for active duty personnel and families, advocating for open dialogue and early intervention to address mental health challenges effectively.