Runners in the San Jose 408K Race had a welcome distraction to the competition on Sunday.
WWII Veteran Joe Bell showed up dressed in full military uniform to show support for the runners and the race's cause. The annual 8-kilometer race benefits the Pat Tillman Foundation, which invests in military veterans and their spouses through educational scholarships. Pat Tillman was a San Jose native that played for the NFL before he was tragically killed by friendly fire while serving the U. S. Army in Afghanistan.
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In turn, one runner took a moment from the race to shake 95-year-old Bell's hand, thanking him for his service. Other runners quickly followed, and a spontaneous, heartening sidewalk tribute took place.
BONUS: Internet Steps Up to Honor Veteran Without Family at Funeral
So sad .... I do hope someone can attend pic.twitter.com/58Eif7QTwv
Crowds gather for the funeral in Lytham of Harold Percival #lytham pic.twitter.com/p3HfWbjhgW
Harold Percival's funeral in Lytham. Mourners young and old. pic.twitter.com/fERb5u43KW
Hundreds turn up for funeral of war veteran Harold Percival who died without close friends and family. pic.twitter.com/HOFimYrojG
More service personnel arriving at Harold Percival's funeral in Lytham. pic.twitter.com/fHwHCSZgYW
RAF standard bearers prepare for the arrival of Harold Percival's coffin at Lytham Crematorium #lytham pic.twitter.com/vXTxNfJCfh