2011 Marine Corps Marathon [Image 12 of 16]

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

10.30.2011

Photo by Master Sgt. Michael O'Connor 

International Security Assistance Force HQ Public Affairs

Race volunteers count laps for the 20 runners deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan, who took part in the 2011 Marine Corps Marathon Forward satellite marathon held Oct. 30. Since 2006, the MCM Forward event has allowed runners in Iraq and Afghanistan to participate in the 26.2 mile test of endurance in excruciating heat, onboard ships and in unfriendly terrain. This year, in conjunction with the 36th MCM, running events were held in Afghanistan and aboard the USS George Bush, more than 6,000 miles from the Arlington, Va., finish line. As the official race starter for the event, Marine Corps Gen. John R. Allen, commander of NATO and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan, sent the runners on their way at 6:45 a.m. with the blowing of the starter's whistle.

• Date Taken: 10.30.2011
• Date Posted: 10.31.2011 09:18
• Photo ID: 481847
• VIRIN: 111030-F-QG390-005
• Resolution: 1024x680
• Size: 340.45 KB
• Location: KABUL, AF