The Black Hills Veteran’s Honor March was conceived in 2002 as a way to honor the sacrifices of the nation’s servicemen and women. The 26.2-mile march takes place in the picturesque Black Hills National Forest on the Mickelson Trail. The March is held on a weekend at the end of September.
The March, which is conducted under the auspices of the South Dakota National Guard Enlisted Association (SDNGEA), grew out of an idea that originated from some South Dakota Army National Guard soldiers who had participated in the Bataan Memorial Death March. It was during the long ride home from White Sands, New Mexico that the idea of a commemorative march could be held to honor all Veterans, and that the Black Hills would be a perfect place to hold such an event. Since the Bataan Memorial Death March takes place in late March-early April, the consensus was that this new event should be held later in the year.
On September 21, 2002, seven members of the Army National Guard traveled to Deadwood, SD, and set out to reconnoiter the proposed march route and establish sites for water points, rest stops, and lodging requirements. Ted Deloy, Michael Jones, Matt Lacroix, Ben Lamp, Jeff Nord, Ben Smetana, and Mark Thomas were members of the recon team and laid the foundation for this event. The route today closely matches the original route from Rochford to Deadwood, the only change being the decision to end at the Rodeo grounds as compared to main street Deadwood.
After completing the dry run in September 2002, the marchers compiled notes and ideas. Due to mobilization in 2003, the idea had to wait to be presented to the SDNGEA at the state conference in April 2004. The decision was made to have the inaugural march start in September 2004.
Since its inception, the memorial march has grown to hundreds of marchers from across the United States. Events are offered in Team Military and Civilian, Individual Military and Civilian, Heavy Military (with a 40lb Rucksack), Marathon, Mini-March, Team Mini-March, and now 110 Mile Endurance March.
The 110 mile endurance event is broke down into four segments/days. The first three segments are all self-contained; you will be in charge of your own nourishment, hydration, lodging, medical support and transportation. It is MANDATORY at least three participants (minimum) march together as a TEAM with additional support personnel to provide assistance with drop offs at starting points, pick-ups at finishing points every day and anything else that might come up throughout the first three days.
The fourth segment is in conjunction with the participants of the one day Black Hills Veterans March and Marathon. This day there are many rest stops with food, drink and a competitive spirit to help urge you to the finish line.
Water points, small shelters, and latrines are located along the trail, it is highly recommend to carry enough water sustain yourself between points, do logistic and planning prior to the start of the event.
The 26.2 mile march takes place on the Mickelson Trail, the surface of which is primarily crushed limestone and gravel. An abbreviated 16 mile march is also available. This march/marathon pays tribute to the many sacrifices that this nation’s veterans have made in the past and continue to make today.
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