5 things to know in veterans news: Buzz for the ‘Mosquito Bowl,’ a $1 billion pledge, catching the Marine Corps Marathon

The 51st running of the Marine Corps Marathon, a new movie about a football game played between Marine regiments in WWII and Home Depot makes a pledge to veterans.

The 51st running of the Marine Corps Marathon, a movie about a football game played between Marine regiments in WWII and a Home Depot gift. Marathoners compete in the 50th annual Marine Corps Marathon on Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025, on the streets of Washington, D.C., and Arlington, Va. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes) WASHINGTON — The Marine Corps Marathon runs Sunday for the 51st year, with more than 40,000 participants expected to compete. The race starts at around 7 a.m. near the Pentagon in Arlington, Va. The blast of a 105mm Howitzer will signal the start of the race, which is one of the largest marathons in the nation. The route runs through Arlington, Va., and Washington, offering scenic views of national monuments and public spaces.

The marathon has attracted well-known figures over the years, including Oprah Winfrey, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, actor Drew Carey and multiple politicians. Thousands of military veterans will compete, and retired Marine Col. Hank Donigan will be among them. He will return for the 31st year. Hank Donigan, a 71-year-old Marine Corps veteran, will compete for the 31st time in the Marine Corps Marathon on Oct. 25, 2026. (Hank Donigan) Donigan, 71, says that he sees the race not only as a personal challenge but uses the event to raise funds for Semper Fi and