FORT SILL, Okla. -- The Ordnance Training Detachment recently participated in the 23rd Annual Bataan Memorial Death March.
The 26.2 mile march was in the high desert terrain of White Sands Missile Range, N.M. The event is conducted in honor of the heroic service members who defended the Philippine Islands during World War II, sacrificing their freedom, health and, in many cases, their very lives.
"I feel very honored to be able to participate in an event that honors our fallen comrades," said Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Smith, detachment operations sergeant.
The Ordnance Training Detachment team consisted of Maj. Brian Wolford, Sgts. 1st Class Douglas Elliot, Smith and Blake Ourso and Staff Sgt. Joshua Fricke in the military heavy team category (ACUs and a 35-pound rucksack) and Capt. Monique Whyte who competed in the marathon category.
Wolford, detachment commander, noted the large number of operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom wounded warriors who participated in the event as a great source of motivation and an honor to simply walk among them.
To prepare for the event, the team began a rigorous three month train-up in January. Training consisted of aerobic and anaerobic activities. Weekly training included at least one day of CrossFit, two runs at varying intensity and normally two road marches. The team normally conducted a short march of four to six miles during the duty week, and then a progressively longer march of 10 to 20 miles on weekends. Team members also used the Rinehart Fitness Center pool to supplement their program.
The Wichita Mountains, including Mount Scott, provided the team their most challenging local terrain. What they could not replicate, however, was the heat and elevation found at White Sands. Although the team had developed the required strength and endurance over the winter months, the 87-degree temperature proved most challenging.
Of the 36 teams entered in the military heavy division, 24 finished, with the ordnance team in 10th place.
Elliot, a radar repair senior instructor, attributed the intense workouts to how the team placed.
"Our original goal was simply to complete the distance as a team, finishing in the top 10 was simply a bonus and a testament to the hours spent in preparation," he said.
"It was an honor to shake hands with one of the Bataan Death March survivors. His trials, tribulations and faith are admirable, while his valor and gallantry will always be in the forefront of my mind. I am proud to serve my country and continue the legacy of those before us," said Whyte, detachment executive officer, who finished in the top 20 percent of the marathon. "The marathon was challenging, but I cannot begin to imagine what it felt like for those who endured the real thing."
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