January 25th, 2022 – Residents, members of the community, turned out in force this weekend for a race and polar plunge benefitting US Veterans. The 2.2-mile run/walk began and ended at Walker Beach in Brightwaters, where the bravest among the crowd dipped into the frigid 40-degree waters of the Great South Bay. Air temperature was 18 degrees Fahrenheit at the time. Proceeds from the run went to benefit Operation VEST to support the prevention of veteran suicide.

Tragically, each day more than twenty US veterans die by suicide. Another suicide is attempted every 26 seconds. Operation VEST’s mission is to meet this issue head on by addressing the unique and varying needs of our veteran population, while removing the stigma surrounding mental health.

For more information about Operation Vest, or for ways to get involved, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or visit www.operationvest.org.