In August of 1994, when Fall River Police Officer Thomas J. Giunta was shot and tragically killed in the line of duty, his family and the community he served faithfully for more than 21-years came together to mourn his loss. Eleven years later, the same community once again came together to help Giunta’s memory live on. The Thomas J. Giunta Memorial 5K Road Race began at 12:10 a.m. on April 3, 2005, at the intersection of Bank and High Streets near the former Fall River Police Station where Giunta worked. All proceeds earned from the race go to benefit a memorial scholarship fund set up in Giunta’s name. The scholarship fund has raised more than $70,000 in proceeds over the past ten years.
 

(Pictured above) Fall River Police officers line up prior to the race. Giunta’s widow, Doris, accompanies Mayor Edward M. Lambert, Jr. and Police Chief John M. Souza, behind him, at the start of the race. Hundreds of runners from all over the region participate in the annual event. Officer Giunta is included in a booklet created for the American Dream Challenge that includes a number of local heroes.

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