Over the years, the names of the runners have changed, but the goals and spirit remain. The MCM is regarded as The People’s Marathon, celebrating each athlete’s personal effort and achievement. For the Semper Fi & America’s Fund team, what matters most is who and what we run for…

We run for the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice, resting in the hallowed ground of Arlington National Cemetery, just beyond the start line.

We run to conquer lasting physical and emotional scars of war.

We run to say thank you to the people who stand by our side.

We run to honor family history – for our grandparents and parents who served our great nation before and for our sons and daughters who have taken on the cloak of responsibility today.

We run for our brothers and sisters in arms – for the ones we have lost and the ones who still stand beside us, honoring all they have done for our great nation. Each stride is a testament to resilience. Our runners don’t chase medals or records. They run to celebrate life reclaimed, community restored, and hope renewed. Every year, we witness moments that define what it means to endure: a Marine guiding a teammate’s handcycle up a hill, a double amputee crossing the finish line to thunderous cheers, a Gold Star mother running in memory of her son.

These are not simply races; they are living tributes.