Patrick Momany knows the 60-mile walk from Poulsbo to Fort Lewis won't be easy. That's part of the point.
"I want to experience the loneliness I think a lot of these kids experience when they're recuperating on foreign soil," said the self-described Army brat.
Momany, owner of Tatu BBQ, plans to make the walk this Friday, Sept. 11, to raise support for his next trip to Landstuhl Army Medical Center in Germany. As he has on previous trips, he wants to bring a taste of home to the wounded troops recovering there.
He's seen soldiers' moods turn from solemn and quiet to happy and talkative at his barbecues.
"I think that's what food does, especially barbecue, because most people have a special remembrance of a barbecue," he said. "It's a happy time for them."
Momany plans to barbecue for families staying at the Fisher House when he arrives at Fort Lewis on Friday.
He'll participate first in the Freedom Walk to commemorate 9/11, organized by the Poulsbo American Legion Post 245.
Although he plans to walk alone, he said he wouldn't mind if people come out to show their support along the way or walk a mile at his side. He will chronicle his journey on his YouTube channel.
"Honestly, I just can't thank those troops enough for what they're doing," he said. "My little walk is nothing compared to what they do for me."
Donations can be made through PayPal on Momany's Web site, at Tatu BBQ and supporting retailers in Poulsbo, or through a fund at American Legion Post 245.
 
UPDATE
Kitsap Sun's coverage of Momany's walk on Friday included a photo gallery. Momany also posted video from the road on his YouTube channel.