CRYSTAL CITY, Va. - Chas Henry, a combat-decorated, retired Marine and celebrated news anchor, was inducted into the Marine Corps Marathon Hall of Fame at the Crystal City Marriot at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia, Oct. 23, 2015.
Individuals are inducted into the MCM Hall of Fame every year, and this year Henry was one of two selected by MCM director, Rick Nealis.
“The Marine Corps Marathon Hall of Fame is a special way to recognize some of the people who have been apart of the event in meaningful and significant ways for a long time,” said Marc Goldman, marketing manager of Marine Corps Marathon.
Henry began participating and helping out with the marathon as an active duty Marine in 1990. A Marine he worked with arranged for him to be introduced to the MCM committee; he agreed, and he began what would become a long-term commitment to the event.
During his 25 years supporting the marathon, Henry has done numerous things to for the race. He has been a member of the Marine Corps Marathon Ad Hoc Publicity Committee, a guest announcer, the Runner’s Conference moderator and has been the co-host for the Comcast SportsNet’s coverage of the race.
“I was there at a time when the race was very good, but it was nothing like it was now,” said Henry. “I am glad to have seen to the marathon grow in leaps and bounds.”
One of Henry’s most memorable races was running the marathon in 2001 just weeks after the 9/11 attacks.
“One thing I’ve always respected is that the Marine Corps Marathon has gone on through bad weather or even worse situations such as just after the terrorists attacks in 2001,” said Henry. “It was a huge undertaking creating the security for that race, and it was very inspiring to be a part of that race.”
At the time, Henry had just been diagnosed with a disease that eventually led him to have a kidney and liver transplant. Training for the marathon helped Henry keep his mind off the illness and kept him healthy before his surgery.
“I love the fact that the Marine Corps, which is known for its physical fitness, can create this opportunity for the rest of the country to feel a part of that,” said Henry.
Henry fell in love with the meaning behind the Marine Corps Marathon in 1990 and has participated in or supported every marathon ever since.
“It’s enriching to be a part of it every year,” said Henry. “I’m glad to be apart of all the positive energy the Marine Corps is putting out to help thousands of people to achieve a personal goal.”