Meet Team USO Running the New York City Marathon

The USO is fielding a team at the 2023 TCS New York City Marathon for the first time! Five runners will represent Team USO on Nov. 5, 2023, including three veterans, a military spouse and a military supporter whose brother is currently serving in the U.S. Navy.

The runners not only have to run 26.2 miles through all five boroughs but they also have to fundraise on behalf of the USO. The goal is to raise $50,000 to assist the USO in its mission of keeping service members connected to family, home and country throughout their service to the nation.

Let’s Meet the Runners

Andrew Bang is a member of the USO New York Advisory Board who has been an active supporter of the organization since 2018. Andrew graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point and served as an officer for six years. He is an avid runner who has completed 8 marathons – including the NYC Marathon twice.

Andrew said it is a privilege to represent the USO “at the world’s largest and pre-eminent marathon” and is excited to bring awareness to the USO’s mission.

Ruth Casseus is a Navy veteran who served as an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Handler primarily on the USS Ronald Reagan. She completed two official marathons and two unofficial marathons and is excited to give back by raising funds on behalf of the USO.

Ruth works in investor relations. She holds a Master of Science in human capital management from New York University and a Bachelor of Science in biological sciences from SUNY Empire State College.

Mae Ledva is a proud military supporter whose family has a background in the service. Her uncle served in the Navy and her brother is currently a 1st Lieutenant in the Marine Corps. Both attended the United States Naval Academy.

Mae is a native New Yorker and has had running the NYC Marathon on her bucket list. She applied to run as a member of Team USO because of her deep gratitude for the men and women in the military. Mae wants to spread the USO’s message and encourage others to support the military.

Aristian Torregano is a proud Army disabled veteran who is married to a retired disabled sailor. She lives and works at West Point where she serves as the middle school principal. Aristian earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of North Florida, a master’s degree from the University of Guam and a Doctor of Education from Northcentral University.

Aristian makes a point to run daily and has completed virtual marathons.

“Running is spiritual for me. There is something about being out on the road and making every step forward that fuels my soul,” she said.

She is honored to represent the USO this November.

Dustin Winton has completed 26 marathons but will be participating in his first NYC Marathon this November.

“I consider this is the best way to put forward my running talent and serve the community by raising funds for our service members and their families,” he said.

Dustin’s wife has been serving in the Army Reserves for nearly 20 years. He has seen the impact the USO has had on service members and their families and believes running the marathon as a member of Team USO is the best opportunity for him to support the military community.

To support Team USO at the TCS New York City Marathon visit bit.ly/USONYCMarathon