Tiger Battalion, Fort Hamilton High School, Brooklyn NY

Fort Hamilton HS – Fort Hamilton High School JROTC Volunteered At 2024 NYC Marathon

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Fort Hamilton Tiger Battalion, gathered in front of the 2024 NYC Marathon announcer podium & Tiger Battalion Color Guard at attention
A group of cadets working with other volunteers to lead a wave of runners to the beginning of the Marathon
Left to Right: Cadet Su, Cadet Yang, Cadet Bushuev, Cadet Martinez, Cadet Casquete, Cadet Tan, Cadet Amasendi-Collado, Cadet Mo, and Retired Major Sang B. Lee
Center: NY State Governor Kathy Hochul

        On November 3, 2024, the Fort Hamilton High School Tiger Battalion partook in a volunteer effort to support runners in the 53rd edition of the annual NYC Marathon. Over 50,000 competitors-and-temporarily-turned-New-Yorkers embarked on an extensive journey from across the globe, sketching unforgettable memories of New York City into their heart as they ran through all five boroughs.

        Ninety-eight students dedicated their time as cadets to ensure the success of this inspiring international event. With 25 cadets escorting disabled marathoners and 73 guiding runners of various ages and races, all five waves of competitors were successfully brought to their designated starting positions on the upper and lower levels of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge in Staten Island, NY. Their collective effort in providing enthusiastic cheers, answers to questions, and mutual hand claps for participants was an undeniable testament of their encouraging support and camaraderie as runners approached the 26.2 mile course.

Cadets preparing to escort runners to the start line.

        Additionally, the Tiger Battalion’s Color Guard played an active role in showcasing the battalion’s unwavering commitment towards the NYC Marathon through their mastery in presenting the United States of America, New York State, New York City, Army JROTC and Fort Hamilton High School JROTC colors on the stage overlooking the event announcer’s podium.

        Though the physical and mental fatigue created an unfavorable situation, the FHHS Tiger Battalion was able to power through to bring people all over the country a worthwhile experience. The citizens’ reciprocating their support and approval made it all worth it.

        Each NYC Marathon is history in the making and, most importantly, proof that humans can put everything aside to come together as a community and family despite the obstacles life throws at us. This moment is symbolic of not only our unity but also of our identity. For runners and students alike, this event allowed them to be better than they were yesterday for each other, their city, and our country.