Of all the fundraisers for him since he was shot last month, one in February will be close to John Taylor’s heart — a 5K race.
Halifax County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Joe Puhak and Roanoke Rapids Police Officer Mike Moseley are planning the event with the support of the Police Benevolent Association.
“John is a runner. Mike and I are runners as well,” Puhak said. “We want to support him and are asking for the community’s support as well. We’re doing something that means a lot to him.”
Puhak said he and Moseley need the support of the community, churches and organizations. “This is a gesture to honor John for the sacrifice he took that that day.”
Taylor’s shooting on November 17 was a jolt to the law enforcement community. “You get comfortable in your daily duties. When you hear this on the news, you never think it could be your friends and family. It hit home for the local law enforcement community. Most important, we’re grateful John was spared.”
It has been Taylor’s attitude in the month after the shooting that has inspired the officers, Puhak said. “That’s what motivated us to do it. He is so motivated to keep giving even though his life was nearly taken from him. We want to run for John, his recovery, to say thank you.”
To help make the John Taylor 5K Recovery Run successful, the organizers are seeking sponsorships, Puhak said. “We’re seeking sponsorships in any form, financial, volunteers and churches. We’re seeking prayer warriors. We’re going to have a run and walk and those who aren’t able to we’re asking them to offer sideline support and prayers.”
Volunteers will be needed for many different jobs, refreshments for the runners, helping runners and other duties performed during these events. “We’re seeking a big turnout.”
The organizers thought hard about the proper name for the event, Puhak said. “The Recovery Run is symbolic of the importance of John vitality and the community and local law enforcement’s vitality.”
Moseley, who got back into running in August, talks about the sport with Taylor. “He has actually run in a competitive race. We felt it would be a good way to pay tribute with something he likes and has a passion for.”
Taylor supports the race, Moseley said. “John said he really appreciates it. We thought it would be a great thing. We thought about it and decided to put it off for him to be there.”
Moseley said it is the least they could do. “John would do it for us. That’s just the way we are. I want to show support for him because I know if the shoe was on the other foot, he’d figure out a way to help us.”
Puhak and Moseley are currently mapping race route. T.J. Davis will be the starting and assembly point.
For more information or to volunteer email Puhak at
