I turn the key forward and release the starter keeps turning but the engine does not crank. When it does crank I can drive a short distance and the engine will die

The starting system in your truck operates that way. When you turn the key to start it you can release the key immediately and it will continue to crank until it starts or several seconds whichever comes first. What engine is in the truck? Now with the actual problem with the truck, when it runs and dies something is being lost, most likely fuel that burns but some things need to be established before that determination.Is the theft light blinking at any time? Does it have spark when it won't run? What is the fuel pressure and by using a fuel sample its quality? Does or did the engine make any abnormal noises or was anything changed just prior to the current issue? If a scanner is available does the computer have any codes at all?

Had the same problem with the same year truck. 4.6 3V engine. Problem turned out to be in the EVAP system. I have to admit I caused the problem with my gas filling technique. When filling the tank, do not force feed the fuel nozzle to get the last half gallon of gas into the tank. What happens is you force raw gasoline into the line for the charcoal filter, which can destroy it. When the EVAP system attempts to check the system while driving, it attempts to pull a vacuum on the fuel tank. If you damage the EVAP pump or solenoid the system will continue to attempt to pull a vacuum. I've seen the gas tanks on these models crush inward like a beer can. Before that happens, the problem you encounter is usually the first indication. Proper diagnosis usually requires a live engine analyzer. If it is the EVAP pump and solenoid the parts usually run somewhere around two hundred bucks. Check your warranty. The truck comes with 5 year warranty, and the EVAP system longer, maybe.

Check for bad connection on Fuse 27. Controls the fuel pump. Notorious for overheating creating build up on terminals. Replace fuse is temp solution. Relocate fuse is permanent solution

Answer on this being normal for turning over until engine starts or 10 seconds elapses is correct. It is designed to do that even if you momentarily hit start. Turning to off will interrupt it if you do not want to wait the 10 seconds