2019 is the 21st  anniversary of Laguna Hills’ Half Marathon, 5 and 10K race.  In 2011  the race was renamed in honor of the city’s adopted 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, of the 1st Marine Division (nicknamed Darkhorse).    Their  2010 deployment  to Afghanistan now ranks among the storied battles of this Battalion– for their valiant fighting and the loss of 25  Marines killed and nearly 200  seriously wounded.   Tribute banners to these 25 Marines line the race route to honor their sacrifice.  Among the runners each year are combat veterans, current enlisted Marines and family members of the fallen.    Marine static displays of armament are present at the Laguna Hills Community Center at the EXPO following the race.     Wounded warriors are honored every year as the Grand Marshall of the Memorial Day races.   Runners can meet and mingle with the Marines who serve our country at the EXPO in our Memorial Day and Team Darkhorse Booths.