The Bataan Memorial Death March is a challenging march through the high desert of White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, held in honor of the American and Filipino troops who were forced to march across the Bataan Peninsula in 1942. Many of those defenders came from New Mexico.
On Saturday, March 20, 2027, thousands of service members, veterans, ROTC cadets and civilians will take on a 26.4 mile full course or a 15.6 mile honorary course. Many choose to carry a heavy pack, walking in the military light or heavy division, and teams march together the whole way.
The terrain is tough, with sand, hills and real desert heat, so train for it. A virtual edition is also offered for those who cannot travel.
What stays with people is the opening ceremony and the chance to shake hands with survivors' families and Gold Star families at the start line. It is a march about remembering, and every step counts.
