WHITE SANDS MISSILE RANGE, N.M. (March 22, 2025) - A remarkable 4,603 participants participated in the 36th Annual Bataan Memorial Death March, held on March 22 at White Sands Missile Range. This event honors the approximately 75,000 U.S. and Filipino service members who became prisoners of war in the Philippines during World War II, serving as a tribute to their enduring memory.
"The outpouring of support from our community for this event speaks volumes about the reverence we hold for the legacy of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation," said Col. Donyeill Mozer, the host of the Bataan Memorial Death March and Garrison Commander of White Sands Missile Range. "To witness such unity in honoring their memory is truly humbling."
Mozer demonstrated his commitment by completing the entire 26.2-mile Bataan marathon route one week before the Bataan Memorial Death March. This test run allows individuals working the march to participate. Mozer's completion of the course will enable him to focus on interacting with the marchers on the event day and express his gratitude to the supporters in attendance.
"The story of Bataan, with all its heroism and tragedy, must remain a vibrant part of our national memory. Sharing this legacy with future generations ensures that the immense sacrifices made for our security are never forgotten, serving as a testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable hardship," said Mozer.
Brig. Gen. George C. Turner, Jr., the Commander of the White Sands Missile Range, and Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Cordery, the senior enlisted advisor at White Sands Missile Range, led by example by participating in the march. Their involvement demonstrated the military leadership's commitment to the event.
At the starting line, Army medical students Alison Rossdeutscher and Elizabeth Brickman were gearing up to participate in their third full 26.2-mile Bataan march together.
"It is such a good environment being here. I am nervous, of course, because it is a difficult course. But overall, I am excited," said Rossdeutscher.
Their journey began during their first year of medical school when they decided to take on the challenge to push their limits and enhance their physical fitness. Both women recognized the demanding nature of their studies and sought a rewarding outlet to relieve stress and maintain their health. The two future doctors have trained diligently and find joy in the physical challenge and camaraderie with other marchers they meet on the course.
This marathon symbolizes a test of endurance and their unwavering commitment to personal growth and resilience amidst the rigors of medical education.
"I am living at sea level, so being at elevation will be a challenge, but it is a really fun race. It is fun to talk to everybody on the course and meet fun people. I am more excited than nervous," said Brickman.
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