Operation VEST will host its 5th Annual 22° Run & Plunge, a family-friendly event dedicated to raising awareness for suicide prevention among veterans, active-duty military, and first responders.
The rain-or-shine event will be held Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Walker Park and Beach in Brightwaters. Participants can take part in a scenic 2.2-mile run or walk starting at 10:00 a.m., followed by a polar plunge into the Great South Bay at 11:00 a.m.
People of all ages and abilities are welcome to run, walk, plunge, do both, or participate virtually.
“Operation VEST is dedicated to preventing veteran suicide by addressing the unique and individual needs of veterans, raising awareness, and breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health so veterans and active military members can heal and find support,” said New York State Senator Alexis Weik.
Safety will be supported by the Suffolk County Police Department and Marine Bureau, the Bay Shore Fire Department Dive Team, Bay Shore-Brightwaters Rescue, and the Brightwaters Highway Department. You are invited to complete 22+1 push-ups together to honor the cause and encourage conversations about mental health.
Each day, an estimated 20 veterans die by suicide. For every completed suicide, there are more than 30 attempts—over 250,000 annually—according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Organizers say these numbers underscore the need for continued awareness and community involvement.
Operation VEST is a Long Island-based 501(c)(3) organization committed to ending suicide one life at a time by addressing the diverse needs of veterans. All proceeds from the event remain local, directly supporting veterans with food insecurity, housing assistance, counseling services, service dogs, alternative therapies, and other essential resources.
Registration is now open at 22degreerun.com. The event is sponsored in part by the Legere Family Foundation, Good Samaritan Hospital, and Texas Roadhouse of Deer Park.