A limited number of spots are available for the 31st Marine Corps Marathon. You can be part of the excitement with your friends and family. Do not let this opportunity pass you by. The race is about participation, personal and physical achievement. The race is filled with thousands of moving stories.

The marathon entries are available through the organization Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). This is the only organization set up to heal the hearts of those left behind and it closes its arms to no one who has been affected by the loss of a loved one in our military. TAPS is not a one-time organization. They help the survivors however long, no matter how many times they need TAPS.

Running in the name of a fallen military hero is a comfort to the families as well as helping to get the TAPS organization to the eyes, ears and hearts of Americans.

The non-registered runner can join TEAM TAPS by sending an e-mail and instructions will be sent back.

Runners already signed up for the marathon can join TEAM TAPS by going to the web site to register.

"TAPS has been extremely beneficial to us since my husband was killed in Iraq. Running this marathon in his honor and in support of TAPS is an opportunity for me to contribute to the cause that has helped so many families like mine", stated Dawn Rowe, widow of Captain Alan Rowe, USMC.

The time is running out and if you have specific questions you can e-mail Dan Sudnick or Sonja Milutinovic .

Team TAPS will need volunteers to help support the runners on race day along the course and to greet them at the finish line. This can be a family affair and bring along your co-workers. It will be a day to remember. You can make a difference.

For full details, call 1-800-959-8277 or visit Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors . It was created in 1994 by a military widow named Bonnie Carroll and it is a registered 501.c.3 not-for-profit Corporation.