Van of Valor

By Lauren Wallace
Van of Valor

CASPER, Who. – Here at Van of Valor, our journey to honor the fallen is built on a sacred promise: to ensure that every sacrifice is remembered.  While our mission drives us forward on the highways, it’s the heartwarming discovery of fellow patriots on the same path that reminds us we are not alone in this fight for recognition. 

During a recent search for photographs of Marine Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Sorenson, we found more than just a picture.  We found a brother in arms, a man named Tyee Eliason, the Washington State Freedom Runner. 

His story stopped us in our tracks. 

A Runner’s Pledge: Carrying the Flag and the Burden. 

In his own powerful words, Eliason explains his mission.

“I am a Freedom Runner.  I love our country and believe in the brave men and women that either past or present fought for our freedom,” said Eliason.  “As a Freedom Runner, I raise money and awareness for the unbearable number of veterans that commit suicide every day.  I am making a stand for the 22-0 because everybody that fights for our country are worth fighting for. 

“I raise my flag proudly and know that every step I take is for a soldier that can’t make the steps for themselves,” Eliason continued.  “Along the way I hope to inspire my peers to join my fight to end veteran suicide.  God Bless the USA and Freedom Flying High in any and all towns I am in.” 

When we found Eliason’s research on Lance Cpl. Sorenson, we were moved by its depth and respect.  His photos are clean and clear, but his commitment goes far beyond a single snapshot.  

Before every run, he records a video, telling the world exactly which hero he is running for that day.  He honors these warriors while proudly bearing the weight of the American flag- a living, moving tribute to their memory. 

Our Shared Mission: Every Story Matters 

The story of  Eliason is exactly why  the Van of Valor exists.  As we travel the lower 48 states, we are collecting and sharing these powerful threads that make up the fabric of our nation’s character.  They remind us that behind every name on a casualty list is a hometown, a family, and a story of sacrifice that must be preserved. 

We urge anyone who knows a Purple Heart recipient of a Gold Star family with a story to share to contact us.  Together, we can ensure that these American patriots are never forgotten.  

Help Us Keep the Mission Rolling 

Our vision for the future is bold, and with your help, it is within reach. 

The Mission Evolves: After this cross-country sprint, we will transition to a sustainable, long-term mission.  We’ll continue to seek out and record these vital stories, traveling as needed to ensure every voice is heard. 

The Van Becomes a Sanctuary: This is where the dream gets bigger.  The Van will be reborn as a mobile memorial and museum.  Imagine walking through a space where the outside honors the Fallen, and the inside surrounds you with the voices and faces of heroes.  Visitors will be able to spend hours immersed in these stories, discovering new layers of courage and sacrifice with every visit. 

We are racing against time to preserve the legacies of heroes like Lance Cpl. Ryan J. Sorenson and to support the mission of patriots like Tyee Eliason.  The Van of Valor mission is in full swing, but we need your help to get our mobile museum home and ensure these voices of courage echo for generations. 

Every small donation fuels a legacy. 

Please, help us bring them home. 

Donate Now: www.HelpVoV.com 

Thank you for your support, and thank you to Tyee Eliason for your inspiring patriotism.  Let’s all keep fighting the good fight.