WALK WILL HELP FUND WAR MEMORIAL.

Byline: Angela Randazzo Staff Writer

SIMI VALLEY - A local civic group has scheduled a 5K walk for June 3 to raise money for a proposed memorial that would pay tribute to men and women who served in the armed forces during World War II.

The Simi Valley chapter of the Knights of Columbus-Fourth Degree Father Patrick McDonagh Assembly No. 2557 is sponsoring the walk.

``There is not a memorial to honor the men and women who served in World War II,'' said Earl Todd, one of the organizers. ``The country really came together during the war. This monument will not only honor those who served but those who supported the war effort at home as well.''

The memorial will especially pay tribute to the more than 400,000 men and women who gave their lives in war.

``I'm walking in honor of my uncle, who was over in Europe in the 3rd Army with Gen. (George) Patton,'' Todd said. ``We have a number of people who will be walking in honor of a family member or friend.''

Nationwide, the Knights of Columbus-Fourth Degree plan to raise $500,000 for the memorial, which is to be erected in Washington, D.C.

The local chapter has set a goal of $10,000 to contribute to the memorial fund. They also plan to make the walkathon an annual event that will draw the community together and raise money for a variety of charities.

The Knights of Columbus is expecting more than 300 walkers to participate in the event.

The entry fee is $10, and participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt.

Registration begins at 8 a.m., and the walk will begin at 9 a.m. at Rancho Tapo Community Park, 3700 E. Avenida Simi, Simi Valley.

Donations also can be sent to Edmund Roberts, Knight of Columbus, Assembly No. 2557 comptroller, 2606 Cochran St., Simi Valley, 93065; or call [phone].