Marines lead the way on the final lap during the Tribute to the Fallen on Nov. 5. They were joined by Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and civilians. Semper Fidelis – Always Faithful.

For nearly three weeks around the clock, Marines at Fort Gordon showed their faithfulness to their country and their fallen comrades by running laps around Barton Field in the dark of night, in the heat of the day, in the rain and in the sun

On Nov. 5, they closed out more than 3,450 miles run during the Tribute to the Fallen ceremony on Barton Field. The tribute run began on Oct. 16.

“It’s such a small way to honor their sacrifice,” said Capt. Scott Gurley, Marine Corps Detachment commander.

Each 3-mile lap around Barton Field was run in memory of one slain Marine or Navy Corpsman whose face and name was projected on a screen. Eight additional names were added to the list during the event. In all, 1,172 Marines and Navy Corpsmen have lost their lives since the fighting in the war on terrorism began.

Marines perform a gun salute in the closing ceremony of the Tribute to the Fallen on Nov. 5. “We deal with and accept death. We do die, but let me assure you we are paying them back,” said Capt. Michael Fisher, commander of the Navy Information Operations Command Georgia at Fort Gordon.

Stopping the enemy who uses the mentally feeble plus children to carry out their terrorist attacks and who plan attacks on innocent civilians is the goal no matter the cost, he said.

“That’s our job, and we’ve done it well,” he said.

During the three weeks, the Marines were often not alone on their treks around Barton Field.

“Several times, they said they were overwhelmed by Sailors, Airmen and Soldiers who ran with them as they carried the rounds,” said Gurley.

The final lap was dedicated to all service members who’d died in past wars. Joining the Marine Corps detachment were Sailors, Airmen and Soldiers as well as civilians.

One runner delivered a pouch of rounds to be used in a gun salute.

Honored at the ceremony were two people who ran the most laps. Marine Staff Sgt. Ryan Pippin and Navy Chief Petty Officer Suzie Fowler- Tutt each ran 93 miles in support of the tribute.