Student organization honors service, sacrifice

Remembrance: A single word that inspires, unites and drives a tradition that runs deeper than miles. 

Each fall, the student organization One Day for the K.I.A. hosts a 5K on Ohio State’s Columbus campus to pay tribute to service members who are killed, missing or have become 100% disabled in service. It is more than just a run — it’s a promise to remember those lost in service by raising funds to support the educational goals of their children and siblings.

Since 2016, the student organization has raised more than $55,000 in Living Legacy scholarship awards through their events, continuing their mission of honoring sacrifice through action.

“It’s something that means a lot to me because I can relate to everybody that has been supported by the organization,” says One Day for the K.I.A. President TJ Hill, a third-year biochemistry major. “I don’t think a lot of people realize how nice it is to know that your family member is remembered and honored.”

As both a member of the Gold Star community and a cadet in Air Force ROTC at Ohio State, he understands the weight of service and the importance of remembrance.

When he was only 5 years old, TJ lost his father, U.S. Air Force Capt. Jeffrey Hill, a C-17 pilot stationed in Alaska, in a plane crash. Capt. Hill had dedicated his life to service, known for his leadership, positivity and his drive to mentor younger airmen. He was 31 years old.

“From the stories I’ve been told about him, he absolutely loved life and loved his family,” TJ shared. “He would constantly take my brother and me on adventures — snowmobiling, four-wheeling. He was a people person and loved flying.”

That loss shaped TJ’s perspective and his drive to give back. When he first discovered One Day for the K.I.A., its mission immediately resonated with him. What began as simple involvement quickly became a calling. Now, as president, TJ leads with purpose and heart, honoring his father’s memory by helping other families feel seen and supported.

Vice President Garrett Sanzo, Treasurer Rachel Secody and other student leaders work as a team with TJ to bring the organization’s mission to life, ensuring every event runs smoothly.

In addition to the annual fall 5K, the team organizes endurance events, such as the spring 10K, an ultramarathon and a 12-hour run. Each challenges participants while keeping the spirit of remembrance alive throughout the year.

Their shared commitment to honoring service members and supporting families sustains the organization, creating a culture where all participants feel connected to a larger purpose.

“We’re not just a club that hosts a 5K every year,” explained Rachel, a third-year industrial and systems engineering major. “We have hundreds of stories behind us, with so much remembrance and community driving why we do what we do.”

More than 150 runners gathered under clear autumn skies the morning of Oct. 25 to take part in this year’s 5K. It was the largest turnout yet for the student organization, and the day couldn’t be more fitting — crisp air, golden leaves and the quiet energy of a crowd united by a shared purpose.

Rooted in a strong military community that includes ROTC cadets and veteran families, the organization’s mission was reflected in every stride. Throughout the race, runners encouraged one another with smiles, cheers and small gestures of motivation that kept the momentum alive. Along the race route, supporters held handmade signs and called out words of encouragement, their voices carrying across the course.

Whether running or cheering, everyone contributed to the same feeling of unity that defined the day.

That spirit of togetherness is what truly fuels the organization. While its foundation is built on military connections, the event’s reach extends far beyond. Students, families and community members come together each year, inspired by the organization’s mission of remembrance and service.

“Seeing people who aren’t even military-affiliated just come out and run the race, and seeing these huge crowds of people, is something really powerful,” said Garrett, a fourth-year security and intelligence major. “Seeing everyone’s faces on race day lined up at the starting line is a great feeling.”

This growing community drives the organization forward, turning remembrance into action. The bonds formed on race day last well beyond the finish line, inspiring the ongoing work to support families, expand scholarships and honor every life.

At the heart of the organization’s mission is a belief that guides so many with similar experiences of loss. Reflecting on that purpose, TJ shared a quote that holds deep meaning for him and for many others:

“You die twice — once when your life ends, and again when you are forgotten,” he said. “We’re here to make sure that never happens. Their memory will live on.”

That belief is what keeps the organization going. It’s what brings people back each fall and drives the effort behind every event and scholarship.

One Day for the K.I.A. isn’t only about running; it’s about carrying forward the memory of those who gave everything and the community that refuses to let them be forgotten.

With every step, name and life honored, the tradition grows into a lasting tribute for service and sacrifice.