JOINT BASE MYER-HENDERSON HALL - More than 2,600 Soldiers and civilians from the Department of the Army gathered on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall June 12 for the Army's 240th Birthday Run.
Runners packed the parking lot at Summerall Field on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base, braving heat and humidity that was already high for the fun run's 7 a.m. start time. The 3.3-mile run route took participants through the joint base and the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery.
Director of Army Staff Lt. Gen. William T. Grisoli thanked the thousands of runners for coming out to celebrate and show their respect for the Army. He also asked that they keep a few things in mind during the run.
"Be proud," he said. "When our nation needs us, we're there. That builds a tremendous trust between us and our nation. That's paramount for us. Be mindful that this trust was built many years before us, by Soldiers before us, from Valley Forge to Afghanistan."
Grisoli asked that participants be grateful for the sacrifices of so many who came before them.
"Be thankful," he said. "In a few minutes, we'll run silently through Arlington National Cemetery. Be respectful to those who rest there. This hallowed ground is our nation's tribute to our service members. It demonstrates their pride in you and the many opportunities those who rest there provided to you. They have passed the torch to you. We cannot fail them."
And then they were off - thousands of service members and civilians running in formation, chanting cadences to stay energized.
By 7:40 a.m., the fun run had concluded and all of the runners were back in the Summerall Field parking lot, sweaty and ready to start the day.
Sgt. Maj. Steven Payton, sergeant major for deputy chief of staff, G-3/5/7, said he was thrilled to be able to do the birthday run on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, and that other Soldiers were as well.
"It's an awesome opportunity that Soldiers may get once in a lifetime to do it at this level, with this group of folks from around the D.C. area," he said. "To be able to do it through the cemetery, for those who paved the way for us, it's an honor and privilege."
Later in the day, a ceremonial cake cutting was held at the JBM-HH Dining Facility on the Fort Myer portion of the joint base.
Col. Johnny Davis, regimental commander of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), cut the cake and thanked the Soldiers who continue to provide selfless service to their nation.
"After 240 years, the Army has matured and grown to be an awesome and powerful force in today's world," he said. "That's because of the loyalty and dedication of each and every one of our Soldiers."
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