Dozens of Long Islanders ran in East Meadow Saturday morning for a good cause.

The first 'Run for Vets' was held at Eisenhower Park, and organizers say they plan to hold the event every year from now on. 

Participants chose to run or walk a 5 or 10K to honor men and women who served in the military.

Hundreds of runners signed up to take on the course.

"I love it, that's it. I just love helping these guys, so many of them giving their time and their lives, even, for this country," says Ralph Esposito, of the Veterans Service Agency." We have the greatest nation in the world."

The race will help disabled veterans and veterans in need of housing assistance or childcare.