The March was truly an amazing run, especially for anyone interested and familiar with WWII history. There is a great opening ceremony in honor of the survivors of the March as well the ones that perished. Later, while making your way to the start you get a chance to meet the remaining few survivors, shake their hand and exchange a few words. Most people, myself included, got quite emotional. Seeing the survivors created a wonderful positive atmosphere that you take with you for the rest of the run.

The 26.2 mile run takes place in high desert, elevation between 4000 and 5000 feet. There are no spectators along the course except a few military families stationed at the base. That creates a much more of an ultra atmosphere then your everyday marathon. The view is also stunning. My eyes had trouble focusing on the miles and miles of desert stretching all the way to the horizon.

The course is challenging. It features a steady five mile climb and the rest was pretty hilly as well. There is also a deep sand section which is about a mile.

My run progressed very well until about mile 23 where I realized that I was severely dehydrated despite drinking a full cup of Gatorade and a cup of water every 2.5 miles. Due to the strong wind I did not sweat and actually felt very chilled so I really didn't pay enough attention to my fluid needs. I really didn't worry about it too much though with just three miles to go. Some Miller Lite at the finish really helped to solve the hydration problem!

The Memorial Battan Death March is really one of a kind events and I would highly recommend it to anyone who would like to run a decent course in the desert and enjoys military and patriotic atmosphere. It also gives a runner a chance to be a part of something great and unique for a couple of days.