Silkies Hike In Philadelphia, Veterans Uniting

Cookies Tavern 2016

‘Camaraderie and Humor Will Save Lives’

Approximately twenty-two veterans a day are taking their own lives, committing suicide! Silkies Hike is built on the premise that camaraderie and humor will save lives. Allowing veterans and active duty personnel to bond, build friendships, laugh, talk and become a support network that veterans often need to fight the war at home.

This hike is not about finding a cure or to raise money, the WALK IS THE CURE. This group wants to reduce PTSD and the suicide rate among the United States Veteran population! – while simultaneously raising awareness among the civilian population.

Silkies Hike was co-founded by best friends, Captain Danny Maher, USMC (Ret), and Sergeant Ryan Loya, USMC, through their non-profit Irreverent Warriors. The idea was that camaraderie and humor could save a life. Both Danny and Ryan each lost a close friend to suicide and as a result, made a pact to reduce the epidemic of veteran suicides.

The first event was on July 25, 2015 in San Diego and has now skyrocketed to over 40 events nationwide, each coordinated by local veterans. This is a continuing series of events throughout the United States, benefiting Irreverent Warriors,Inc. a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN: 47-4789126) whose mission is to: Bring veterans together using humor and camaraderie to improve mental health and to prevent veteran suicide.

Silkies Hike Philadelphia 2016

Silkies Hike Philadelphia

In its 4th year, the Irreverent Warriors Philadelphia Silkies hike will be taking place on July 20, 2019!

This year, former Army Specialist Jeffrey Belonger, will be the coordinator for this year’s Philadelphia Silkies Hike. Former Marine Corporal Steven Pagano had originally coordinated the Philadelphia Silkies Hike from 2016 to 2018.

Participants will hike 9 – 13 miles while only wearing their combat boots and “silkies”, which are green physical training shorts that were made famous by the United States Marines. They will also be carrying 22 lbs to 48 lbs (for whoever enjoys the weight, not required) in their rucksacks.

The group will meet at the Plough and the Stars in the Old City District at 0730 hours. At 0900 hours, they’ll step off to hit several different areas in Philadelphia. (the order with times will be posted the of the hike) For those that still want to sign up: Sign Up For Silkies Hike in Philadelphia

Irreverent Warriors Stops will include:
In no specific order, stops will include: The Tun Tavern sign on Front St (It is traditionally regarded as the site where the United States Marine Corps first held its recruitment drive during the American Revolution), the Vietnam, Korean and Beirut memorials, Philadelphia landmarks such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Art Museum steps, the Rocky Statue, Love Park, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and a few pubs for food and drinks.

Press/Media and Donations

The Press is invited to join Silkies Hike Philadelphia at the Plough and the Stars at 0800 hrs, during any parts of the hike and at the finish at 1615 hours. For those in the media who want to meet up with us at any of the specific stops, for pre-event interviews or for comments, please e-mail Jeff Belonger at Philadelphia@IrreverentWarriors.com.

If you would like to donate money to help with the costs of the event or supply other items for along the hike, please let Jeff know. Or for next year if you would like to participate, donate, supply certain items, have them stop by your establishment, or help sponsor the hike, please let Jeff know.

Silkies Hike Pre-Gathering ~ July 19 at 1830 Hours (6:30 pm) to 2300 hrs

For those in town or coming into Philadelphia the night before, a few will be meeting at Cookie’s Tavern at 2654 S Alder St (corner of 10th St & Oregon Ave). The owner, Sal, will be supplying food on the house with beer and drink specials.

Marines Birthday Celebration in Philadelphia 2019

Every year since 1977, Marines and other branches of the service have been celebrating the Marines birthday on November 10 at Cookie’s Tavern in South Philly. What started out as a 2 person celebration the first year, to 100 people the second year, has now grown to around 1,500 people. It doesn’t matter if you have served or not, this is one celebration you don’t want to miss. A few blocks on Oregon Avenue are closed off. The fun usually kicks off around noon each year on November 10. There is a ceremony around 12:30 pm that lasts about an hour. There will also be food, beer and drinks, live music and more. People come from North Carolina, Georgia, Texas and even California. Come out and see what it’s all about! Semper Fi!