The registration process for the 20th Annual Army Ten-Miler (ATM) that is produced by the U.S. Army Military District of Washington and lead sponsors, Association of the U.S. Army and Bearing Point, is underway. The race will be held on Sunday, October 24, 2004 and it will start and finish at the Pentagon. It's no longer a secret; we are the largest 10-mile road race in the United States and the second largest in the world. We will register 20,000 runners this year and have more than 700 teams.

The race means different things to all of the runners who travel from the far corners of the world to participate in the Army's race. The race is the crossroads of the military and the civilians and the goals are friendly competition and to enjoy the race.

The backdrop is the "Tradition of Excellence" and committed groups and individuals, which make up the ATM Volunteer Team. They are the backbone, the framework of the house. The race does not look for helpers but volunteers, those who are willing to make a commitment and to support the event and the runners; this is an experience, not just a race. It takes those who are outgoing, friendly, and want to make a difference and feel a part of something. Volunteers will be needed starting Friday, October 22, 2004 through Sunday, October 24, 2004.

The title, "America's Largest 10-Miler," did not come easily. There were bumps along the way and a learning experience, which has been taking place since 1985 when the race had 1,379 finishers. It takes months of preparation and planning and the volunteers execute the plans on race weekend. To be a volunteer is not for everyone; we need those with a passion.

A successful race is made by having the right volunteers, in the right positions, doing the right things, and making judgment calls as required and sharing their ideas for improvement.

On Monday morning, October 25, 2004, we want each volunteer to have a feeling they were a part of something greater than themselves. Some of the runners may have been out of the country for months but they returned for the Army's race and each volunteer helped to create that "memorable moment" that each will take back with them.

Just think about the rush you can get as you stand alongside the water table and it's quiet and all of a sudden, hundreds of runners are coming toward you with hands extended looking for a cup of water. You hear a hearty "thank you."

Each volunteer will receive a long-sleeve race t-shirt. Groups of (10+) receive a commemorative plaque and Web site recognition.

For additional details, visit the race Web site for a listing of the positions, contact George Banker, or call (202) 685-3361.