Army Ten-miler......a review

The Army Ten-miler is a fantastic race sponsored by AUSA, The Association of the United States Army and KBR. This is a very patriotic race, with several runners carrying the American flag from start to finish.  Runners who were running to remember a loved one who died in wars ranging from WWII to Afghanistan/Irag.   As I crossed the marker for mile 5, I heard much clapping and cheering, I couldjn't figure out the reason until I passed a young soldier with a prosthetic leg, walking while carrying full combat gear on his back.  I passed him, cheered him on and almost burst into tears.  Here I was staerting to complain about my achy feet, and here is this brave young man, having been wounded, walking with all that wieight on his back, and a smile on his face!
Registration fees and contributions support the Army Morale, Welfare and Recreation programs.  MWR programs offers Soldiers and their families with cultural and creative activities to enrich their lives.  They also offer programs to relieve stress and help the Army  "build strength and resilience, and help the Army Family stay physically, mentally and financially fit."  Having served in the Army, I was able to enjoy many of their programs from a free Billy Joel concert to quilting and framing classes.  This is the second year that I've run the race and here is my review....
Registration:  Easy online and it sells within hours.
Updates:  Many updates with expo and race information.
Expo:  Great, with many vendors offering a variety of running gear, check my review on the SlackLace.
Race Day:  What a gorgeous day for a run!  It was a cool, clear morning, as the race approached the skies were a crystal blue.  The course took us along many of the District's monuments.  Leaves were changing from green to golden yellow, red, purple and orange, it was hard not to stop and stare at their beautiful colors.  I wanted to stop and take pictures along the way.....  Water stops were plentiful with very cute soldiers passing out water and Gatorade.
Finish:  Plenty of water and a shiny finishers coin at the end.  Food.....muffins and bagels in a bag that were not very appetizing.
Grade: A-