(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) – On August 24th, 2024, Simi Valley will come together to honor the 13 U.S. service members who lost their lives during the tragic Afghanistan withdrawal. The “13 Souls Run/Walk/Ride” event is a tribute to these heroes, who were killed on August 26th, 2021, while helping to evacuate thousands of civilians from Kabul’s Karzai Airport as the Taliban regained control of the country.
The Kabul attack was a devastating moment in the evacuation effort, sparking significant criticism of the withdrawal strategy organized by the administration at that time. Two suicide bombers and gunmen targeted the very heart of the evacuation at the airport’s Abbey Gate, killing 13 U.S. troops, 60 Afghans and injuring over 140 others. Many argue that the withdrawal was poorly planned and executed, leading to unnecessary chaos and the tragic loss of life.
One of the most pointed criticisms is that American citizens and Afghan allies who supported U.S. efforts during the 20-year conflict were left behind. Critics argue that more should have been done to ensure their safety before the U.S. military withdrew. They also question the decision to rely on the Taliban for airport security, seeing it as a serious mistake.
Despite the attack, U.S. forces continued their mission, determined to complete the evacuation before the August 31st deadline.
The 13 Souls Run was organized by Simi Valley father, Jeff Von Molt whose son—a Marine—survived the attack. What began as a personal tribute has grown into a community-wide event to honor these 13 fallen heroes and support their families.
Each of the 13 service members being honored received the Congressional Gold Medal, recognizing their bravery and ultimate sacrifice. Here is a brief tribute to each:
Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza, 20, of Rio Bravo, Texas
A Marine with a strong sense of duty, David joined the military right after high school to protect his nation, embodying values like grit and dedication.
Sgt. Nicole L. Gee, 23, of Sacramento, Calif.
Nicole was a Marine known for her passion for her work, which she often shared on social media. Deeply committed to serving others, her husband is also a Marine.
Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover, 31, of Salt Lake City
Darin served valiantly as a Marine, helping to evacuate U.S. citizens and Afghan allies. Friends and family remember him as a true hero.
Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss, 23, of Corryton, Tenn.
Ryan, an Army soldier devoted to his country, made the ultimate sacrifice. His wife says he would have had no regrets about his service.
Cpl. Hunter Lopez, 22, of Indio, Calif.
Following in his parents’ footsteps, Hunter, a Marine, had a background in law enforcement. His parents served in the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.
Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum, 20, of Jackson, Wyo.
Rylee, a Marine with a strong sense of duty from a young age, was recently married. His family remembers him as someone destined to serve.
Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola, 20, of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.
A Marine and recent high school graduate, Dylan’s community honored him for his commitment to service.
Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui, 20, of Norco, Calif.
Kareem was a Marine remembered for his bravery in saving lives during the evacuation. He had always aspired to be a Marine.
Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo, 25, of Lawrence, Mass.
A proud daughter of her hometown, Johanny was a Marine deeply committed to her service and her community.
Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez, 22, of Logansport, Ind.
Humberto was a Marine and a talented student who sacrificed his post-military plans to protect others. He is remembered for his positive impact on the world.
Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz, 20, of St. Charles, Mo.
On his first deployment, Jared was a Marine passionate about serving his country. His father described him as a true hero with a constant smile.
Navy Hospital Corpsman Maxton W. Soviak, 22, of Berlin Heights, Ohio
Maxton was a Navy medic proud of his role as a Corpsman, devoted to his service, and leaves behind a large, grieving family.
Cpl. Daegan W. Page, 23, of Omaha, Neb.
With a tough exterior and a giant heart, Daegan was a Marine who was an active Boy Scout, hockey player, and was dedicated to his service, remembered for his loyalty and bravery.
Participants in the 13 Souls Run can choose from a 1k, 5k, 10k, or half marathon route. The event is untimed, focusing on remembrance rather than competition. It will begin at the Simi Valley Metrolink Station parking lot at 5050 E. Los Angeles Ave., with registration starting at 5:30 AM. A ceremony will follow at 6:15 AM, and the run will commence at approximately 7:00 AM.
Each mile of the half marathon is dedicated to one of the 13 fallen service members, with memorials placed along the route. These tributes are reminders of the courage and selflessness that defined the final days of America’s longest war.
Proceeds from the event will be donated to memorial and scholarship funds established in the names of these 13 heroes. After the run, participants will be served breakfast by the Y’s Men of the Simi Valley YMCA Men’s Group, providing a moment for reflection and community bonding.
The 13 Souls Run is a chance for the community to come together in a spirit of gratitude and remembrance. It is an opportunity to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country and to support the families they left behind. The community is encouraged to participate or volunteer, ensuring that these heroes are never forgotten.
