Honor and Remember this Weekend Alongside Lorena Castro and Rosalia Carrasco
This weekend, we call on our entire wear blue community to show up in strength and unity, honoring the service and sacrifice of the American military and their families. Whether you're running or volunteering along the wear blue Mile, taking purposeful steps in your local community, or wearing blue to stand in remembrance, your presence matters. Our tribute wear blue Mile, sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield, JLL, and the 7-Eleven Cares Foundation, will honor 250 fallen service members. Together, we ensure their legacies live on, reminding us all why we run—to honor, remember, and support those who gave everything.
As we introduce our final two Gold Star Race Program athletes, we are proud to share the stories of Lorena Castro and Rosalia Carrasco. These inspiring women are not only committed educators but also devoted family members who are honoring their loved ones through purposeful steps at this year’s Marine Corps Marathon. Their journey over the past 20 weeks has been one of resilience, love, and remembrance, and this weekend they will take on the challenge of running in memory of PFC Juan Luis Castro and CPL Tony Carrasco Jr.
Rosalia Carrasco
Sister of CPL Tony Carrasco Jr.
United States Army
KIA 4 November 2009
Meet Rosalia
As a fourth-grade teacher, honoring my brother's memory is a deeply personal and meaningful part of my life. I share stories about him with my students and proudly display his picture in my classroom. This year, my students are especially excited to cheer me on as I cross the finish line in his honor. Teaching allows me to bring joy and learning to my students each day, and I often draw inspiration from my brother. His positivity and love for life motivate me to instill that same sense of happiness and curiosity in the children I teach.
Tony was loyal, caring, and loving toward his family and friends. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and boxing. Fridays were movie nights at our house, and Tony was always happy, waking up with a song or a smile. He loved the Army and his fellow soldiers, and I will always honor the joy he brought into our lives.
Meet Lorena
I teach 3 to 5-year-old students with special needs, and I also mentor Spanish-speaking TAPS mentees. Volunteering with wear blue transformed my grief and helped me honor my son, Juan, with purposeful steps instead of cemetery visits. Running has improved my physical and mental health, and I hope to inspire others in the Gold Star community to take their first step toward healing.
Juan wanted to serve his country and pursue an education. His courage and conviction have inspired me to serve my community and embrace my own journey. Though his service was brief, Juan made a significant impact with his passion, courage, and dedication. I know he will be waiting for me at the finish line, proud of his mother for honoring him.
Lorena Castro
Mother of PFC Juan Luis Castro
United States Army
17 June 2015
This weekend is a powerful opportunity to honor the fallen, support their families, and unite as a community. Show up at the wear blue Mile, take purposeful steps in your own runs, or wear blue to demonstrate your support. Together, let’s carry forward the legacies of these heroes and ensure that their memory remains a guiding light for all of us. Go blue!
Be sure to check out the Race Weekend Details to join wear blue throughout the weekend in our Nation’s capital.
