“Shadow Runs” will be held in war zones in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kuwait and Kosovo. In addition to the usual preparations for a run — combating heat and dehydration — war zone athletes must also concern themselves with another “runners threat”: incoming fire.

The Ten Miler will feature individual runners and teams of runners. Five of the most impressive — and courageous — teams to watch will be the teams of Mission (Parts) In Action (MPIA) runners.

These military amputee teams – two from Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC), two from Brook Army Medical Center (BAMC), Fort Sam Houston, TX, and one team from San Diego Naval Medical Center (SDNMC) are returning for their fourth year in the Army Ten-Miler Race.

Major Dave Roselle, who lost his foot in Iraq and is the first amputee in recent military history to resume a field command, will head one of the MPIA Teams. Rosell, decorated with the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Army Commendation Medal, remains an avid athlete, participating in Ironman competitions, triathlons, skiing, snowboarding, and mountain climbing in spite of his injuries.

The rest of the MPIA Ten-Miler line-up is similarly impressive.

What impresses us even more than amputees entering a foot-race is the determination of these brave troops to resume military service or a full and vigorous civilian life without letting their injuries get them down — a true testament to the bravery and determination of our US Troops! #