NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The annual Up Front for DeMar 5K race and 1-mile walk will be held on Veterans Day, Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023. 

 

This annual event is to raise money for the SPC Michael R. DeMarsico II scholarship fund and to honor Michael and all who serve and have served. 

 

SPC DeMarsico was killed in action on Aug. 16, 2012, while serving in Afghanistan. "DeMar" to his fellow battle buddies, served at the front of his battalion searching for IED's. The young specialist discovered 16 IEDs, saving many men in his unit, before stepping on one.

 

In the days and weeks that followed Michael's death, his community came out in full support of him, his service, and his family. This annual event allows the community to continue to do that and help ensure Michael and his sacrifice are not forgotten. 

 

The race begins at Veterans Memorial in North Adams at 8:30 AM and ends at the American Legion. People can register online at demar.racewire.com or by contacting Eileen Sullivan at 413- 212–0445 or upfrontfordemar5k@gmail.com

 

Packet pickup and race registration will be held at the American Legion Friday Nov. 10, 4pm to 7pm and race day registration will be available at 6:30 AM at the starting line.

 

"When we are able to hold the race on Veterans Day it is always very special and usually very powerful. We will be starting a little earlier so that all can then attend the Veterans Day parade and city ceremony that will follow. It's been 11 years since Michael was killed in Afghanistan and it's important that we ensure his name is said, his story is told and his life honored," said race organizer, Eileen Sullivan. 

 

Additional information can also be found on Facebook at https://m.facebook.com/upfrontfordemar/