PTSD Awareness: U.S. Army vet walks through Central Coast on his 13,000 mile journey

Most fly or drive across the country but walk? Not so much. However that’s just what Army Veteran Eli Smith is doing.

“I’m feeling pretty good, my feet are sore,” said Smith. “Using a bit more sunscreen than usual but it’s better than getting rained on.”

On Tuesday, Eli passed through King City on his trek northbound. He plans to walk to the four corners of the country, all to bring attention to PTSD and veteran suicide.

As a vet himself, Smith said he served as a tank gunner in the Army in South Korea from 2000 to 2002, he knows what it’s like to lose close friends to PTSD.

“So many people that suffer from PTSD both mentally and physically shut themselves off from the world,” added Smith.

Which is why he decided to sell everything he owned and start walking, hoping to make a difference. Walking about 10 to 13 miles a day, Tuesday marked his 203 rd day on the road of his 13,000 mile, four year journey.

He said he’s been blown away by how people from across the nation, different backgrounds, races, and religions, have come together to support his cause and journey.

“I never really feel alone mentally,” said Smith. “Physically? Yeah, most days it’s just me walking. But I know there’s a goal in sight.”

You can follow his journey along on Facebook at www.facebook.com/4cornershike