The Exchange brought its message of relevancy and support to the more than 5,000 participants from around the world who gathered to march in remembrance of the fallen heroes of World War II’s Bataan Death March.
The Exchange worked with White Sands Missile Range Morale, Welfare and Recreation in supporting the event. Participants were given Exchange backpacks containing microfiber towels, sunglasses, lip balm and carabiners, all of which could come in handy during the 14.2- or 26.2-mile course.
“This is a unique audience for an Exchange engagement event,” said Exchange Veteran and Military Service Organization Outreach Manager Maj. (Ret.) Brian Schooley. “We are not only interacting with Veterans, but also active-duty service members, retirees, family members as well as civilians. We cast a wide net in spreading the Exchange relevancy story.”
Expo attendees were reminded about online shopping benefits as well as Exchange employment opportunities for Veterans and spouses.
Veterans had high praise for the Exchange and their experiences throughout their careers, wherever they were called to serve.
“Thank you guys for being here,” said Larry Fleming, a retired Army tank mechanic. “I remember being in Iraq, out in the middle of nowhere, and there was an Exchange trailer. I couldn’t believe it was there and could not have been more grateful.”
Exchange BE FIT Marketing Manager and Brand Ambassador Roy Montez captured the excitement at the starting line and reported live from the 8-mile mark on the course.
The Battle of Bataan was the first major military campaign of the Asian theater in World War II after the Dec. 7, 1941, Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
The Bataan Death March in 1942 was the forcible, 65-mile march of 60,000 to 80,000 American and Filipino prisoners of war to confinement camps throughout the Philippines. More than 1,000 Americans and 9,000 Filipinos died during the march.
This year’s event marked the first in-person march since before the COVID-19 pandemic.
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