My daughter Pia, an Air Force second lieutenant, ran last month’s Marine Corps Marathon (26.2 miles) in Washington, D.C. Our family tagged along, participating in a 10K run (6.2 miles).

Both races ended at the monument to the Marines, featuring the heroic Iwo Jima flag raisers, in Arlington County, Virginia. As we celebrate Veterans Day weekend, I wish to share some recollections. The Marine Corps events inspired me, as a veteran and physician.