Get to Know Operation WarriorFit
Operation WarriorFit (OWF) supports service members, veterans, and first responders pursuing active and healthy lifestyles. OWF accomplishes this by providing significantly discounted or free race entries for 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, triathlons, obstacle course races, and other events that promote a competitive and healthy lifestyle. The mental health crisis affecting many service members, veterans, and first responders after serving at home and abroad is an issue that could be significantly alleviated by encouraging the continuation of a healthy and active lifestyle post-service. One of the challenges faced when trying to engage in this lifestyle is a financial barrier that can hinder, if not deter, many service members, veterans, and first responders from striving to build both mental and physical health resilience. OWF aims to provide this lifestyle to those who have served us both at home and abroad through significantly discounted and/or free race entries, offering a way of living that fosters mental and physical well-being.
OWF LEADERSHIP
JONATHAN MILOVICH
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Jonathan Milkovich, the Executive Director of Operation WarriorFit, served in the Army for five years, concluding his service with the 1-501st based in Anchorage, Alaska (Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson) as an airborne infantryman. He continues to serve in the Wyoming National Guard and comes from a family of first responders; his father is a retired firefighter and his mother is a retired nurse, while his extended family includes police officers, nurses, and firefighters.
Operation WarriorFit emerged after Jonathan left active duty, as he recognized the sense of competition and community he experienced while serving, particularly during his off-duty hours. This sentiment is echoed by family members who have also retired from their roles as first responders. Since his separation from service, Jonathan has aimed to help others avoid the isolation that often accompanies leaving active duty, as the sense of purpose derived from serving one's country fades from many lives. Through Operation WarriorFit, Jonathan hopes to rekindle the community that existed during service while also providing veterans with information about benefits they might not realize are available. The goal is to offer a platform that encourages these benefits and promotes a healthy, active lifestyle, fostering physical and mental well-being. He aims to equip participants with all the necessary resources so that when race day arrives, the community supports them, training has been completed and implemented, and everyone enjoys a successful race, eagerly anticipating the next event with Team OWF.
