MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. -- Family and friends of retired Col. James Loftus Fowler
gathered
for
the dedication of the Marine Corps Marathon building to Fowler, the founder of
the marathon, at Marine Corps Base
Quantico,
Sept. 14, 2015.
The Marine Corps Marathon building was built between
2003-2005 at Marine Corps Base Quantico. In 2005, Fowler cut the ribbon at the
opening of the building. Today the building is called Fowler Hall.
“Ten years later we are now adding the name to this building
that represents the vision Jim held so dearly,” said Rick Nealis, the Marine
Corps Marathon Race
Director.
“I am sure that he is humbled by our attention, but he is very proud of his
wife, family, his Marines and the heritage of this building and all that it
represents.”
Fowler founded the Marine Corps Marathon in 1975, while still
serving at Headquarters Marine Corps, to
help create a community of goodwill between the Marine Corps and the civilian populace.
He was the director of the marathon called the Marine Corps Reserve Marathon in
1976 and 1977 and participated in the marathon in 1978.
The first marathon cost two dollars to enter, had 1,175
registered participants and was operated by the Marine Corps Reserve. It was
the largest first-time marathon and had the lowest cost. In 1978, the marathon
was operated by the active duty Marine Corps. Today, the marathon known as “The
People’s Marathon,” has grown to 30,000 participants.
“This is a great honor that has been given this morning,”
said Betsy Fowler, widow of James Fowler. “It is not the only tribute today,
your presence here is a very important honor.”
Fowler was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the
Marines Corps Reserve in 1952. During his career he served in the Korean War
and the Vietnam War. He was decorated with the Bronze Star Medal and two Purple
Heart Medals during his career. Fowler retired from the Marine Corps after more
than 20 years of service. Fowler passed away in January 2015.
“I think of Jim looking down on us right now, seeing a
twinkle in his eye and a smile with a hint of mischief in it,” said Betsy. “I’m
sure he would be very pleased today.”