The Bataan Memorial Death March held at White Sands Missile Range March 15 will be the largest one yet with a record breaking 10,000 registered marchers expected to attend.
First established by New Mexico State University ROTC in 1989, the march honors the American and Filipino defenders of Bataan and Corregidor, who were surrendered to the Japanese early in World War II.
Following their surrender after months of brutal jungle warfare with scare supplies, the Japanese forced them to march more than 60 miles through the jungle.
Thousands died along the way, and many more died in prisoner of war camps
afterwards.
A number of survivors will be attending this event.
Every year thousands come out to take on one of the nation's most
challenging marathons and honor the veterans, as well as other Soldiers and
family members. This is the first year WSMR will host 10,000 marchers.
Unlike previous years, this year the march registration has no cap, and will
be open until the 14th of March. Those wishing to sign up to participate can
still do so at www.bataanmarch.com.
Route options include a 26.2 mile marathon length, as well as a 14.2 mile
route. Marcher categories include military and civilian light and heavy
categories, both individual and as teams.