Alexandria’s annual Turkey Trot is set to have an especially meaningful grand marshal this year: an Air Force captain who is running 2,977 miles in honor of the victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks — one mile for every life lost that day.
The captain’s remarkable cross-country mission will bring him to Alexandria, where he will lead the city’s beloved Turkey Trot race. The event is a cherished Thanksgiving tradition that draws runners and families from across the community each year.
The story carries a deeply personal dimension as well. According to The Zebra, the grand marshal is also a 9/11 survivor, making his commitment to run nearly 3,000 miles a powerful act of remembrance and resilience. His journey transforms the Turkey Trot into something far beyond a fun run — it becomes a community moment of reflection, gratitude, and shared purpose.
Alexandria’s Turkey Trot has long been a highlight of the holiday season, bringing together neighbors of all ages and fitness levels for a festive morning of movement and community spirit. Having a grand marshal whose story embodies sacrifice, service, and perseverance adds a layer of inspiration that organizers and participants are sure to carry with them long after the finish line.
Whether you plan to run, jog, or cheer from the sidelines, this year’s Turkey Trot promises to be one to remember. Keep an eye out for details on the race date, start time, and registration through local community channels as Thanksgiving approaches.
Sources: The Alexandria Brief, The Zebra
