F3 ABQ

Last weekend, more than 16 PAX from at least 4 regions converged on White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico for the annual Bataan Memorial Death March. With both running and rucking (35 lb) categories, and with military and civilian divisions, Bataan has become one of the nation's premier endurance events.

This event is held each year to honor the heroes who were surrendered in the Philippines on April 9, 1942, at the outset of World War II, and forced to march in the scorching heat 65 miles over treacherous terrain. Thousands of Americans, to include members of the 200th Coast Artillery, New Mexico National Guard, and Philippine Soldiers died along the route and later in POW camps.

The event is typically a 26.2 mile ruck through the New Mexico desert. Although shortened to ~16 miles this year due to extreme heat and limited medical support, the event was a test of our fitness and an opportunity for fellowship between PAX from around the country.

The men from F3 ABQ are honored to help Feed NM Kids get food to children in New Mexico who have need. Since 2023, and thanks to the generosity of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, we have been supporting this cause through an annual 3rd F volunteer event.

✨ We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of F3 Albuquerque and the Balloon Fiesta team. Once again this year, these amazing men volunteered their time working the Balloon Fiesta merchandise tents and chose Feed NM Kids as the organization they wanted to support. Their hard work and dedication resulted in a donation of $1,250 — funds that will directly help us put more food into the hands of children experiencing food insecurity across New Mexico.

We are truly thankful for partners who step up for our kids and continue to make a meaningful impact in our community. 🙌💙