Brookhaven Town officials welcomed Team E.V.A. to Town Hall as part of the 10th annual “Every Veteran Appreciated” (E.V.A.) initiative, a weeklong tribute honoring veterans, active-duty service members, and fallen heroes across Long Island.
Led by Eva Casale, Team E.V.A. is undertaking the formidable challenge of running seven marathons in seven consecutive days, stopping at communities and memorial sites to raise awareness and support for those who have served. The Brookhaven visit marked Day 3 of the effort, a day dedicated to Lt. Michael P. Murphy and Brookhaven’s Fallen Heroes.
The day’s route began at the Lt. Michael P. Murphy Navy SEAL Museum in West Sayville and included stops at Brookhaven Town Hall, Suffolk County Community College’s Ammerman Campus, and other memorial locations. Events concluded with a 5K run at Patchogue-Medford High School.
Supervisor Dan Panico, joined by Town Clerk Kevin LaValle and members of the Town Board, greeted the team and emphasized the importance of honoring military service and sacrifice.
“The Town of Brookhaven was proud to welcome Eva Casale and Team E.V.A. to Town Hall today as part of their incredible Every Veteran Appreciated journey,” Panico said. “Now in its 10th year, this inspiring initiative includes seven marathons in seven days across Long Island, honoring our veterans, active service members, and fallen heroes. Today’s run through Brookhaven paid special tribute to Lt. Michael Murphy, U.S. Navy SEAL and our Brookhaven Fallen Heroes. We thank Eva and everyone involved for their dedication to keeping the memory and sacrifices of our nation’s heroes alive.”
The initiative supports Hope For The Warriors, a national nonprofit assisting post-9/11 veterans, service members, and military families. Brookhaven officials said the town remains committed to supporting efforts that recognize the courage and legacy of those who served.