ARLINGTON, Va. - Hundreds of Marines from the national capital region ran from the Pentagon to the Marine Corps War Memorial Nov. 8 in celebration of the Corps’ upcoming 238th birthday Nov. 10.
Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Corps Micheal Barrett led the run, accompanied by combat-wounded warriors Kyle Carpenter and Isaac Gallegos.
After about a mile and half, the runners arrived at the memorial and were met with fanfare as the United States Marine Band played Semper Fidelis.
The runners paused in formation and Barrett reminded them they were among the few to earn the title Marine, and he applauded them for serving in an all-volunteer force.
“There is nothing more honorable and noble than to serve your nation … You have gone where our colors have gone, and you have done so without asking why,” said Barrett.
To the band’s accompaniment, the runners sang the all three verses of the Marines’ Hymn before running back to the Pentagon.