The 37th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March kicked off…
VIEW ORIGINAL
The 37th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March kicked off…
VIEW ORIGINAL
The 37th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March kicked off…
VIEW ORIGINAL
The 37th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March kicked off…
VIEW ORIGINAL
The 37th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March kicked off at White Sands Missile Range March 21 with a heartfelt opening ceremony, bringing together participants, veterans, and community members to pay tribute to the heroic defenders of the Bataan peninsula during World War II.
As attendees gathered at WSMR in the early hours, the atmosphere was charged with reverence, emotion, and a shared commitment to honor the sacrifices made by the soldiers who endured the original Bataan Death March. The march served as a powerful reminder of strength, bravery, and the unwavering spirit of commemoration, bringing the community together to pay tribute to those who served.
Col. Andrew “Drew” Morgan, Senior Commander of White Sands Missile Range, addressed the audience at the opening ceremony, encouraging everyone to reflect on this somber moment in history. He emphasized the importance of remembering Bataan and honoring the bravery and resilience of those who endured it.
“Eighty-four years ago, in the crucible of conflict, a terrible chapter in military history unfolded—the Bataan Death March—a trial of unimaginable suffering,” said Morgan. “But it was also a testament to the unbreakable spirit of the human will.”
Thousands of American and Filipino service members who defended the Bataan peninsula during World War II were remembered throughout the day, as participants marched with pride and commitment. The annual event continues to be a premier tribute to those who endured the original Death March, which saw thousands lose their lives during captivity.
Lt. Col. Adam Karlewicz, an officer stationed at Fort Drum, New York, participated in the march due to his personal connection to the historical events of Bataan, which developed during his time in the Philippines. As he prepared to march, he reflected on his family’s heritage.
“My spouse and my kids are Filipino. She is from the Philippines; there’s a lot of history there, so being able to do this today is a big part of their heritage and the United States heritage when they became partners during WWII,” Karlewicz said.
Towards the end of the day Morgan and Col. Don Mozer, WSMR Garrison Commander, presented medals to the following teams:
The first place ROTC Heavy Division went to Norwich University Alpha Team, second place ROTC Heavy Division went to Norwich University Bravo Team, and third place ROTC Heavy Division went to Texas State University Alpha Team.
Norwich University Cadet Calvin Moise, who is from Brooklyn, New York, said that in addition to marching in honor of the Bataan survivors they also made a promise to one of their late cadets.
“We lost one of our cadets a few weeks ago so (we marched) in her memory. I made a promise to her before she passed away that we would win for her. So, this win was very meaningful to us,”
This is the fifth year the team has won first place.
The first place ROTC Light Division went to University of Minnesota. The first place for Junior ROTC went to New Mexico Military Institute.
Mozer then thanked all the volunteers and staff members who made the event possible.
Remember Bataan! Never Forget.
Story by Vanessa Flores
WSMR Public Affairs
