2024 Veterans Flag Run
Group Contest has ended! Congratulations to F150 Mafia for raising the most money with $2,135 and a total of $4,290!
11th Annual Desert Fanatics Veterans Flag Run
"What is the Veterans Flag Run?"
It's a convoy of vehicles with American flags to show support for our Veterans. Anyone is allowed to join as long as it's a street legal vehicle. We do have a few rules:
- No political signs or flags are allowed.
- Only USA, STATE, DOD, BRANCH/UNIT, POW/MIA, GADSDEN flags are allowed. No other flags (sports, funny, etc.)
- The event focuses solely on supporting Veterans and is non-political.
- Tailgate grilling is not allowed during the event. Food vendors will be available.
"What does it cost and who can attend?"
The event is completely open to the public. In the past have asked for a $5 cash entry donation in the morning. This year we're changing it up a little bit... there will be a QR code to scan with your phone at the Drop Zone booth to make your donation and be entered into a separate raffle for only those who attend and register in the morning. You will just have to show up to find out what the prize is! No cash required for anything.
"What is the route?"
If you attended prior to years you'll be familiar with the route. Unfortunately we were not able to secure an escort this year to keep us off the highway, but we won't keep that from stopping what we do. This is a pretty simple route with the START AND STOP location being Desert Diamond Arena (blue lot, east side of arena). 101N > I17S > I10W > 101N > Maryland HOV exit.
This route may update pending ADOT closure announcements on Thursday.
"What is the schedule?"
- Flag Run Registration: 8am-830am
- Anthem/Meeting: 8:45am
- Flag Run start: 9am
- Fundraiser/Show: 10am-12:45pm
- Raffles 12:45pm (must be present)
"Who does the money go to?"
Starting in 2023, the Drop Zone Foundation became the permanent beneficiary of the Flag Run. This allows us to do more directly to help Veterans. Visit Drop Zone Foundation or follow us on Facebook.
"When and Where is it?"
Saturday, November 16th, 2024 @ Desert Diamond Arena (Blue Lot) Google Maps Link
"How does the raffle work?"
Raffle tickets will be purchased at the charity booth for $5. You can enter for any item you want to win, but you must be present to win.
History
In 2014, we organized the first Flag Run and raised $1,000 for the Arizona Veterans' Donation Fund with around 100 vehicles participating. Over the years, participation and donations have grown significantly, averaging $20k annually. Since 2023, our very own Drop Zone Foundation is the event's permanent beneficiary.
Previous recipients:
- 2014 - Arizona Veterans' Donation Fund
- 2015 - Veterans 4 Veterans
- 2016 - Race for the Wounded
- 2017 - Service Dog Fund
- 2018 - Race to Erase 22
- 2019 - Vetdrenaline
- 2020 - Heroes Rising Outdoors
- 2021 - Soldier's Best Friend
- 2022 - Operation Enduring Gratitude
For sponsorship or inquiries, email kyle@desertfanatics.com