The nationwide “Carry the Load” campaign came through Medford on Saturday as part of a 20,000-mile relay to honor and remember fallen military members and first responders.  

Medford was one stop of the nationwide journey meant to raise awareness of the true meaning of Memorial Day, according to a news release.  

Participants walk and bike along five routes that cover 48 states in 32 days leading up to Memorial Day.  

JPMorganChase was the title sponsor of the event for the 11th consecutive year, organizers said.

Founded by Stephen Holley, a veteran U.S. Navy SEAL, and his team, “Carry the Load” was born out of a desire to remind the nation of the significance of Memorial Day.

“‘Carry the Load’ first started out of anger and frustration for a nation that we felt had forgotten the true meaning of Memorial Day,” Holley said in a release. “Since then, our Memorial May campaign has helped provide healing for friends and family of the fallen and keeps their memories alive.”

In addition to its sponsorship, JPMorganChase is hosting 14 community events across the country, including last weekend’s in Medford, as part of Memorial May. Over 100 people showed up at the Crater Lake Chase branch location where Kim Boehm, Medford Chase branch manager and event organizer, provided remarks on the importance of “Carry the Load.” 

“This partnership reflects JPMorganChase’s ongoing commitment to supporting the military and veteran community. The firm’s dedication to the military community is evident in its hiring practices, having employed nearly 20,000 veterans and over 3,000 military spouses since 2011,” Boehm said on behalf of JPMorganChase. “These individuals are among America’s best, brightest and bravest. And I’m honored we brought the celebration here to Medford.” 

This year, “Carry the Load” aims to raise $1.5 million, building on the $46 million raised since its inception in 2011, with 93% of funds going directly to programs.