On Sunday, October 25, 2026, nine Ukrainian wounded warriors joined thousands of runners at the start line of the 51st Marine Corps Marathon. The course runs the full 26.2 miles (42 km) through Arlington, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Every one of them has been injured defending Ukraine. Every one of them chose to run anyway.
Major General (Ret.) Volodymyr Havrylov ran beside them. Together they carried Ukraine’s flag, and Ukraine’s story, past the monuments of the U.S. capital.
This year marks ten years in a row that United Help Ukraine has brought wounded Ukrainian defenders to Washington, D.C., for this race. It’s one of the longest-running traditions of our Wounded Warrior Program, part of our wider Medical Aid work.
For these runners, the race isn’t about the clock. Training for and finishing 26.2 miles is a goal set during recovery and earned one mile at a time. Sport gives wounded veterans structure, strength and a team around them, all of which play a real part in rehabilitation. Each step on the course says the same thing: they’re still here, and they’re still standing for Ukraine.
To everyone who lined the course in blue and yellow, shouted their names, and made Ukraine impossible to miss in D.C.: thank you. You helped share the story of our Wounded Warrior Program with thousands of people who may never have heard it.
And to our donors: this journey doesn’t happen without you. Your support makes recovery possible for Ukraine’s defenders, on race day and every day after.
Want to stand with Ukraine’s wounded warriors?
Want to stand with Ukraine’s wounded warriors?
Congratulations to Team Ukraine! 💙💛
