Honoring those who endured
Late last month, thousands of people gathered under the New Mexico desert sky to honor those who endured one of World War II’s most brutal events, the Bataan Death March.
On April 10, 1942, approximately 78,000 American and Filipino prisoners of war were forced to march more than 65 miles under extreme conditions with little food or water. Already weakened by illness and starvation, thousands endured unimaginable cruelty, and many didn’t survive.
Today, the Bataan Memorial Death March (BMDM) Marathon serves as a solemn tribute to their resilience and sacrifice.
For the first time in the event’s 37-year history, the Department of Veterans Affairs Center for Minority Veterans (CMV) participated in the annual march at White Sands Missile Range, engaging directly with service members, Veterans and their families.
Outreach
Ronald Sagudan, CMV’s Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Veterans Liaison, represented the Center during the event. He conducted outreach throughout the day, connecting with participants, sharing information on VA benefits and services, and helping Veterans better understand available VA resources.
“This event is powerful. It honors remembrance, but it also creates connection,” Sagudan said. “Being here allows us to meet Veterans where they are, hear their stories and ensure they know VA is here to support them and their families.”
The marathon drew between 5,800 and 6,000 participants. Most were active duty service members and Veterans. ROTC cadets, military academy students and families also participated.
Throughout the day, Sagudan engaged with hundreds of attendees. Many shared personal stories of service and sacrifice. Others asked questions about VA benefits, including disability compensation, education programs and support services.
The response was overwhelmingly positive.
“Thank you for what you do for my family,” one participant shared. Another said, “It’s good to see you here.”
These interactions underscore the importance of outreach. Beyond sharing information, outreach builds trust and strengthens relationships between VA and the Veteran community.
CMV Mission
CMV’s participation reflects its mission to ensure all Veterans have access to the full range of VA benefits, programs and services. Through direct engagement with the Veteran populations and their families, CMV continues to identify barriers, elevate Veteran voices and support more informed, Veteran-centered care.
As participants crossed the finish line, the spirit of Bataan remained present, carried forward through remembrance and a continued commitment to serve those who have worn the uniform.
Topics in this story
More Stories
The Pinedas are a multi-generational military service family, honored for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month.
For some Veterans, putting on the uniform is a single, defining chapter of their lives. But for Army Veteran Steven Jiggetts, military service is a family inheritance, an unbroken story shaped by profound sacrifice, quiet dedication and a deep love of country that spans three generations.
Throughout Black History Month, the Center for Minority Veterans (CMV) is honored to highlight the stories of Black Veterans whose commitment to community endures long after they hang up their uniforms.
Time goes by and you rarely hear about this march from history. It’s so nice to read how these marches honor those who lost their lives. Thank you.
Thank you for your support and encouragement, James. We hope to continue to support this movement for years to come.
My old Team Sgt that I had many years ago was on that march. He never talked about it.
That is incredible. It’s a common story with that generation. The weight of what they went through was often beyond words. It’s an honor for CMV to participate in this march and keep the memory of leaders like your Team Sgt alive.”