Community Corner

Wanna Challenge A Marine? Patriot Day is For You

The CrossFit Challenge, pitting civilians against Marines, is one of several activities part of Sunday's Patriot Day celebration from 2-8 p.m. Event should be reverent but also fun.

By Martin Henderson

The Marines are looking for a few good men. Come Sunday, you can prove you have the mettle to walk with America’s fighting force without a four-year commitment.

The CrossFit Challenge is one of many activities taking place during Rancho Santa Margarita’s revamped red, white and blue Patriot Day Celebration.

Find out what's happening in Rancho Santa Margaritawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Attendees are requested to wear their American colors to the free event from 2-8 p.m. at Central Park.

Over the past three years, static displays of military equipment—allowing kids to hold rifles and climb aboard military vehicles—and have been part of the program, but it has mostly been a short, reverent affair that was modestly attended.

Find out what's happening in Rancho Santa Margaritawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

This year, the city is celebrating Patriot Day in a much bigger way. The reverent remembrance of military veterans and those lost in the wake of 9/11 such as Lisa Frost, Cpl. Jordan Stanton and Gunnery Sgt. Stephen Bryson will remain with the help of local scouts. And the Marines are still bringing their equipment. 

But the program Sunday evening now includes winning essays read by their student authors, an upbeat musical concert—similar to summer concerts in the park. 

And of course, the Marines are ready to go head-to-head with anyone who wants to take them on in the CrossFit Challenge.

The latter is at 3:30 p.m., and anyone participating must pre-register for the obstacle course to test mobility and stamina. Residents are encouraged to compete against the Marines as well as friends and neighbors. For more information, contact Community Services at 949-216-9700 ext. 1256, or visit the City website or Facebook page.

More than 125 members of the city’s adopted 2nd Battalion 5th Marine Regiment from Camp Pendleton will be on hand to explain equipment and life in the military, and it’s a can’t miss photo opportunity for anyone with children.

The day begins at 2 p.m., with access to the military vehicles and displays.

The Patriot Day ceremony begins at 5 p.m., and precedes a concert by the band The Others, which will perform a lively mix of songs such as Surfing USA, American Girl, Free Bird and Born in the USA.  

Food trucks will also be on hand.

Patriot Day which was created to remember the sacrifice of those who were lost during the terror attacks on the United States on Sept. 11, 2001.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here