Memorial Bataan March @ San Marcos High School

After the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, they also invaded Luzon, Philippines in January. American and Filipino troops fought bravely for three months, but eventually surrendered and were forced into the Bataan Death March with some of the most horrific war crimes of WWII.

60,000-80,000 Filipino and American POW’s (Prisoners of War) were force marched for 65 miles under the harshest conditions imaginable. They marched through tropical conditions, enduring heat, humidity, and rain without proper medical care.  Those unable to make the march were beaten, killed, and sometimes beheaded. The Bataan Death March has a devastating legacy and should never be forgotten.  https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/topics/battle-bataan-death-march

Lest we forget, Filipino and American Soldiers paid a huge price during the Bataan Death March.  Air Force JROTC at San Marcos High School, in coordination with the Maurice T. Suttles VFW Post #3413 pay tribute to this legacy by organizing this Memorial Bataan March in our city.

Date/Time:  March 23, 2024@7AM (Saturday)

Location:         Start@ San Marcos HS, 2601 Rattler Road, San Marcos TX

                        End@ VFW Post #3413, 1701 Hunter Road, San Marcos TX

Distance:  Approximately 15 Miles.

*Participants will march from San Marcos High School, AFJROTC Cadet Wing to the VFW Post #3413.  March will be approximately 15 Miles in distance. Participants may march in the "Light Division" or in the "Ruck Division."  Ruck Division participants must carry at least 10-20lbs of CANNED GOODS for the duration of the march. (Please No Rocks, Bricks, etc.) All rucksacks will be inspected and weighed prior to the start of the march.  Canned goods will be donated at the end to the Veteran Support Activity at VFW Post #3413.