Marines Begin Relay Run for Beirut Bombing Victims
The 241-mile run honors the U.S. service members who died in the 1983 bombing in Lebanon.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Running
Camp Lejeune Marines have embarked on a 48-hour, 241-mile relay run starting at the Lejeune Memorial Gardens. The grueling distance commemorates the 241 service members, including 220 Marines, who were killed in the 1983 Beirut bombing.
Why it matters
The event serves as an annual tribute to the lives lost during the attack in Lebanon 43 years ago. It precedes a formal memorial service hosted by the city of Jacksonville to ensure the fallen are remembered by the community and the military.
The relay covers 241 miles over 48 hours to represent the 241 service members lost in the attack. The bombing occurred 43 years ago at the Beirut International Airport.
The players
Robert Fulford
Lt. Gen. Robert Fulford is a high-ranking military officer who serves as the keynote speaker for the annual memorial service.
The details
Marines are completing the run in alternating shifts comprised of groups of two, four, or full squads. Meanwhile, the city of Jacksonville is preparing for the tribute by decorating the grounds with yellow bows.
Timeline
October 23, 1983: Suicide bomber attacked the U.S. Marine barracks in Beirut.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026: The relay run started at Lejeune Memorial Gardens.
Friday, October 23, 2026: The 43rd anniversary and annual memorial service at 10:30 a.m.
Season Trajectory
The annual commemoration of the 1983 Beirut bombing remains a central pillar of the military identity in Jacksonville. This event anchors the city's remembrance season, maintaining historical continuity for the local military community.
Residents in Jacksonville may notice increased activity near the Lejeune Memorial Gardens as the relay concludes. The formal service on Friday will require attendees to plan for a 10:30 a.m. arrival at the memorial site.
The takeaway
The relay run highlights the enduring impact of the 1983 tragedy on the modern Marine Corps. Community members can show support for the military families by attending the service on Friday morning.
What happens next
The 43rd annual memorial service will take place at the Beirut Memorial in Jacksonville on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 10:30 a.m.
Further reading
For more on community athletic tributes, see local Running news.
