BETHLEHEM, Pa. – Freedom High School student Alex Pantaleo is trying to make a difference for veterans.

As many of his classmates were munching burgers at backyard barbecues during Memorial Day, the aspiring military man kept his aim on what the holiday is really all about.

MORE NEWS: Know These Before Moving From Cyprus To The UK

Pantaleo started out from his home in Bethlehem Township Monday and trekked to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in town, then back home – a 22-mile journey that represents a mile for each veteran who commits suicide every day, the senior told WFMZ.

“I thought that was really crazy that that could ever happen,” Pantaleo said. “I’m glad I could be a catalyst for change hopefully.”

Pantaleo carried an American Flag and a military pack as he spoke with a reporter about the high rate of suicides among veterans, and how he found the strength and energy to push on during his quest.

“My feet are hurting, by back is hurting a little bit,” he said. “It’s better than running.”

“I just keep thinking that people are down range doing things protecting us, so the least I can do is keep on pushing,” Pantaleo said. “On a day like Memorial Day, it’s important to take a minute out of your time and really reflect on why we have our freedoms today and the people who got us here.”

MORE NEWS: How to prepare for face-to-face classes

Pantaleo set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for veterans with his walk, and his efforts netted more than $800, well over three times his initial goal of $250.

“Starting last year I rucked 22 miles on Memorial day. This was in order to honor and remember the nearly 22 veterans a day that commit suicide, dedicating each mile to a fallen soldier,” Pantaleo wrote on the fundraising site. “This year I am hoping to raise funds for the Keystone Wounded Warriors, which provides support and guidance for wounded veterans and their families.”

Pantaleo told WFMZ he plans to attend The Citadel, a military college in South Carolina, after graduation.

The teen took to Facebook after his trek to give thanks for those who supported his efforts.

“After 6 hours and 43 minutes 22 miles are completed,” he wrote. “It’s hard to keep in the emotion. I can’t thank everyone enough that gave me encouragement along the way, donated, or took a picture with me. I couldn’t have done it without everybody.”