Hello, my name is Kyla Krueger, I am running in the 2012 Boston Marathon and raising money to help support Run for the Fallen Maine, a 501 c (3) non-profit .  They are a dedicated group of individuals who faithfully support the families of those military servicemen and women who have given their lives in the line of duty. Their mission is to keep alive the memory of our military heros who have given their lives since September11, 2001.  Please consider a donation to help this selfless organization, and to show your support to all of the families who will forever live without their loved ones.

While I am honored to be running for all of those men and women who have given their lives in service of this country, I am specifically running in memory of my husband LT Sean David Krueger USCG.  

Sean Krueger lived in Waterboro, Maine and graduated from Massabesic High School in 1994.  The Summer after graduation, at age 17, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard (USCG).  He graduated from boot camp and was sent to a Coast Guard Cutter (CGC) where he spent almost 2 years as an enlisted member of the CG.  From there Sean attended the Naval Academy Preparatory School and the USCG Academy, earning himself a Bachelors degree, and a commission as Ensign in the USCG.  His first tour as an officer was on the CGC Sundew where he was a deck watch officer.  He applied to and was accepted into the flight school program, and in June of 2003 he was awarded his wings as a naval aviator and was assigned as a helicopter pilot in Cape Cod Massachusetts.  Three years later, Sean decided to broaden his horizons and applied for and was accepted as the Coast Guard Exchange Pilot with the Royal Navy in Cornwall, England.  Now, as if two years in the rain of Southern England was not enough, Sean decided that he wanted to spend a few more years in the rain, and asked to be sent to SItka, Alaska.  His detailer happily obliged and upon the completion of his exchange tour he and his family were sent to Sitka, Alaska.  And yes folks, it rains a lot in SItka!  

Sean's military service awards include the Air Medal, C.G. Commendation Medal, C.G. Achievement Medal, and Commandant's Letter of Commendation, among numerous other unit, team, and personal awards.  Additionally, he was awarded the Prince Philip Helicopter Rescue Award and the Edward and Maise Lewis Award for a heroic rescue while serving as CG exchange pilot in the United Kingdom.  Sean served his country for almost 16 years.  In those 16 Years he not only earned a long list of awards and commendations, but he also earned the respect and admiration of his fellow "shipmates."  Sean was a quiet leader who loved his job. He was a Coast Guard officer, aviator, friend, and mentor. 

But most importantly he was a loving father, husband, son, and brother.  On July 7, 2010, LT Sean David Krueger USCG, was killed when the Helicopter he was piloting crashed off the coast of Washington state.  This tragic accident has effected not only his immediate family, but all of those who had come to know Sean, and even some whom he had never had the pleasure of meeting.  

I am running this marathon not for Sean but with Sean.  I  am honored to be running for an organization that whole heartedly supports the families of our fallen soldiers.  An organization full of people who not only give monetarily, but mentally, physically, and emotionally give back to those of us who need unwavering strength and support.  

I am asking you to please pay it forward, support Run for the Fallen Maine.  No donation is too small, and I thank you in advance for your generosity.