Every September, the Marshall University football squad laces up for more than just practice; they embark on a mile‑long run that ends at Spring Hill Cemetery, a quiet hilltop where a somber memorial stands.
A Tradition of Remembrance
The trek commemorates the 75 people who perished when a chartered plane crashed near Tri‑State Airport in 1970, among them six members of the Thundering Herd and a host of coaches, administrators, fans and crew.
What began as a simple tribute during the tenure of former head coach Doc Holliday has evolved into a ritual that binds generations of players, alumni and the broader Huntington community.
Former player Michael Owens and team chaplain Steve Harvey recently recalled the stories of those who perished, emphasizing how the crash reshaped the program’s identity and forged a unique sense of belonging.
After the run, participants gather for a modest breakfast in the Shewey Athletic Center, a spread prepared by the Herd Brothers — an alumni network that has taken on the role of custodians of the program’s history.
Voices From the Past
Norm Strickland, a former offensive lineman and now president of the Herd Brothers, spoke about the importance of that connection, noting that many current athletes arrive on campus having transferred from other schools and quickly learn the deep‑rooted traditions that set Marshall apart.
The ceremony is not just a nostalgic look back; it also serves as a reminder of the resilience and unity that have defined Marshall football for decades, a contrast to the more transactional approaches seen at many other institutions.
The annual event also draws attention from the Sun Belt Conference, under whose umbrella the team competes, highlighting the broader regional significance of the tradition.