Heroes Inspiring the Future
Race Description
Some heroes never come home, but their legacy can continue to inspire generations.
The SSG Karolasz & SSG Oliveira Memorial 5K Run & Walk is an annual event presented by VFW Post 1302 to honor the lives, service, and ultimate sacrifice of Staff Sergeants Edward Karolasz and Jorge Oliveira, who gave everything in defense of our nation.
This race is more than a finish line. It is a community’s promise that their names, their stories, and their sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Whether you are a competitive runner, a casual walker, a veteran, active-duty service member, first responder, or simply someone who believes in honoring those who served, we invite you to stand with us. Every participant helps preserve the memory of our fallen heroes while supporting programs that improve the lives of veterans and military families throughout our community.
Along the course you’ll find a spirit of patriotism, remembrance, and unity. At the finish line you’ll become part of something much larger than a race a tradition dedicated to service, sacrifice, and giving back.
Event Features
Professionally timed 5K Run
Untimed Memorial Walk
Overall and age-group awards
Opening Ceremony honoring our nation’s fallen heroes
Veterans organizations and community partners
Family-friendly atmosphere
Refreshments and post-race festivities
Beneficiary
Net proceeds support the veteran service programs of VFW Post 1302, helping provide emergency assistance, community outreach, youth patriotism programs, memorial projects, and advocacy for veterans and their families.
Why We Run
We run because freedom has a cost.
We run to honor those who accepted that burden.
We run so their stories are told.
We run so their sacrifice is never forgotten.
Join us as we remember two American heroes and reaffirm our commitment to those who have worn the uniform.
Honor Their Service. Celebrate Their Legacy. Never Forget.
WHEN: August 22, 2026
Race Start Time: 9am
WHERE:
VFW Post#1302
300 Belgrove Drive
Kearny, NJ 07032
Meet Our Heroes
Staff Sergeant Edward Karolasz
Staff Sergeant Edward Karolasz, a proud son of Kearny, New Jersey, dedicated his life to serving his country. After graduating from high school, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by enlisting in the United States Army and was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment (“Rakkasans”), 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
On November 19, 2005, at just 25 years old, Staff Sgt. Karolasz was killed during combat operations near Bayji, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated beside his Humvee. He gave his life alongside 1st Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II, Cpl. Jonathan F. Blair, and Spc. Dominic J. Hinton while serving in defense of our nation.
Remembered for his quiet professionalism, courage, and unwavering commitment to his fellow Soldiers, Staff Sgt. Karolasz represents the very best of Kearny and the United States Army. His sacrifice continues to inspire future generations to live lives of service, honor, and patriotism. "Eddie" is the lone Kearny resident to be killed in the Global War on Terrorism.
⸻
Staff Sergeant Jorge M. Oliveira
Staff Sergeant Jorge Miguel Oliveira, 33, proudly served both his nation and his community. Born in Cantanhede, Portugal, he immigrated to the United States with his family in 1985 and grew up in Newark’s Ironbound neighborhood. A graduate of East Side High School, he began his military career with three years of active-duty service in the U.S. Army before joining the New Jersey Army National Guard in 2003.
Assigned to the Security Forces Platoon, 2nd Battalion, 113th Infantry Regiment, Staff Sgt. Oliveira deployed to Afghanistan in June 2011 as part of a Provincial Reconstruction Team. On October 19, 2011, he was killed when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.
In addition to his military service, Staff Sgt. Oliveira devoted his life to public service as a detective with the Essex County Sheriff’s Office. During his distinguished law enforcement career, he served on the SWAT Team, the Warrant Squad, and the Fugitive Squad. His military service also included deployments and missions supporting Guantanamo Bay, Hurricane Katrina, and Iraq.
Staff Sgt. Oliveira will always be remembered for his courage, humility, and unwavering dedication to protecting others whether in uniform overseas or wearing a badge at home. His legacy of service continues to inspire all who knew him.
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. 🇺🇸
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Saturday, August 22, 2026
Sign-in & Registration: 8:00am
Run/Walk Starts: 9:00a
NJRun.Club members receive 15% discount.
You can join during registration checkout.
$520
Raised of $2,500
Contact Us
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Location
VFW Post#1302
300 Belgrove Dr
Kearny, NJ 07032 US
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Sponsors List
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