The Kearny VFW Memorial 5K Run/Walk is held in honor of Staff Sergeant Jorge Oliveira and Staff Sergeant Edward Karolasz, two American heroes whose courage, selfless service, and ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation continue to inspire the Kearny community and beyond.

This event is more than a race it is a commitment to ensuring their legacy lives on. Each year, runners, walkers, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters come together to remember two soldiers who answered our nation's call and gave everything in service to others.

Proceeds from the SSG Jorge Oliveira & SSG Edward Karolasz Memorial Fund help preserve their memory while investing in the next generation. Funds raised provide scholarships to deserving local students, support veteran and military family initiatives, assist with community service projects, and promote programs that foster patriotism, leadership, and civic responsibility.

Every registration, every donation, and every mile completed helps ensure that the values Jorge and Edward lived by service, sacrifice, honor, and courage continue to make a lasting impact.

Our Mission

• Honor the lives and sacrifice of SSG Jorge Oliveira and SSG Edward Karolasz.
• Award scholarships to deserving students in their memory.
• Support veterans, service members, and military families.
• Preserve their legacy through education, remembrance, and community service.
• Inspire future generations to live lives of service and leadership.

Every Step. Every Name. Never Forgotten. 🇺🇸