Last year, the medal had a propeller-driven C-130J Super Hercules plane. This year, it sports a F-35A Lighting II, or Joint Strike Fighter.
“There is something to be said for reverence to service and nationalism in the medal,” said a panelist quoted in the magazine.
The Air Force Marathon wasn’t alone among military races for the recognition.
The magazine ranked the Marine Corps Marathon medal at No. 4, with its eagle, globe and anchor. An inaugural Navy Marathon medal with stars and stripes, an eagle and a Navy ship, came in at ninth place.
The Soldier Marathon, complete with dog chains and a saluting soldier, came in at No. 25.
The Air Force Marathon series of race, a full and half marathon and a 10K race, is set for Sept. 20 on the grounds of Wright-Patterson and through downtown Fairborn. A 5K race is set for Sept. 19 at Wright State University.
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