Local veterans competing in marathons

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - They call themselves the "The Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans".

They are spread out across the country; including Palm Beach County and they have overcome major obstacles in life. Now they are making strides together.

Former Marines who have faced a number of challenges, but some of the toughest, off the battlefield.

"I currently have M.S. I was diagnosed when I was 22 years old and now I am 44," says Lanny Carrero.

But Carrero didn't let it get him down.

"You just have to pick yourself up a by the belt look and move," adds Carrero.

And he moves with the help of a high tech bike.  His wheels are still turning allowing him to compete in marathons.

"I've logged over 2,000 miles on my bike in less than two years," says Carrero.

Helping him along the way is fellow Freedom Vet David McCourt.

"My story really begins on September 11, 2001.  That particular day my wife and daughter were on American Airlines flight 175 to Los Angeles.

That ill-fated flight careened into the south tower of the World Trade Center.

"It was like my heart and soul were ripped from my body," says McCourt.

Trapped in his marathon of anger,  McCourt slowly made strides and finally found comfort running with his comrades.

"They give me the courage to go on and fight and keep going," he says.

Overcoming life's obstacles one mile at a time.  They now have their sights set on a marathon in Costa Rica.  The date of that marathon is Saturday September 11th.

"It's a reminder that we all experience tragedy in some form or another and it is how we get through it and how we approach it," explains McCourt.