Despite freezing temperatures, on January 14 thousands joined as supporters or participants the already 27th iteration of the international On the Road of Life and Death Tribute Run held in memory of the fallen freedom defenders.
It was the first time the event had participants from the NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battalion Battle Group in Lithuania deployed in Rukla. The team of over 200 soldiers from the Croatian, Norwegian, Dutch, French and German contingents ran the distance and demonstrated solidarity in our commemoration of the fight for freedom. The run was also joined by soldiers from the U.S. and Ukraine.
7,600 runners from across cities and towns of Lithuania, as well as neighbouring and NATO countries, made the 9-kilometer distance from Antakalnis Cemetery to the Television Tower. As many as 6,145 organisations applied to take part, just like every year, the most numerous participation, 3,692 soldiers, came from the Lithuanian Land Force.
Three most numerous groups in the run were also awarded. The most numerously represented (over 2,700) group in the tribute run was the Mechanised Infantry Brigade Iron Wolf. The Joint Health Club won among sports clubs, and the 10th Riflemen's Unit - among groups from the Vilnius City.
The first 6 thousand to reach the finish line received commemorative medals, the rest will have bracelets to remind them of the experience.
Credits: Sgt Spc I.Budzeikaitė
