Every year, my wife and I participate in the Army Ten Miler. This year’s race takes place October 7, 2018, beginning and ending at the Pentagon and crosses back and forth over the Potomac River. A map of the race course can be found here: https://www.armytenmiler.com/race-day/course/ I cannot think of an event that so wonderfully captures what it means to live and work in the Washington DC metro area.
As someone who did not serve in the military, it really means a lot to me to try to always give back the military community in any way I can. While I know how small of a thing it is to run in a race, the event really is a great reminder of the sacrifice of those in our armed forces. As stated on the Army Ten Miler website (https://www.armytenmiler.com/about-atm/history), “The Army’s annual Army Ten-Mile Race and Expo is conducted in our nation’s capital by the U.S. Army Military District of Washington (MDW). Attracting over 35,000 runners and 900 teams from around the world, the Army Ten-Miler (ATM) exemplifies the Spirit of Sport and the Spirit of a Nation. Participants include military, civilians, wheel chair athletes and wounded warrior athletes. ATM’s mission is to support Army outreach, build morale, and promote physical fitness. Over 900 Soldiers and 900 volunteers support the Army’s “world class” ATM race.” Even though this is the third largest ten mile race in the world, there is a reason it fills up every year!
As an attorney that assists those with disabling illnesses, I also am in tune with many medical issues facing those transitioning out of military service. I work for a lot of folks suffering with mental and physical challenges due to the sacrifices made while in service. Its important to me to support and promote the Army Ten Miler as all proceeds of the race benefit the Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation programs of the US Army Management Command. In other words, the proceeds of the race go to programs and services enabling readiness and resilience for a globally responsive Army. This includes supporting all aspects of an Army family’s life, from education to recreation to health care. I’m not sure anything can be more important.
Please support our Army by:
- buying something from the Army Ten Miler Shop: https://www.armytenmiler.com/shop/official-gear/
- volunteering: https://www.armytenmiler.com/about-atm/volunteer/
- sponsoring: https://www.armytenmiler.com/about-atm/sponsors/
- setting up a shadow run: https://www.armytenmiler.com/about-atm/shadow-runs/
- coming down to cheer on the runners on race day, OR
- running next year
Even though I’ll never win this race, its an amazing experience, near and dear to my heart because of where I live and because of what I do for a living. Please consider supporting our Army in any way you can.