Salute the Troops

🎖️ Event Overview

• Event Name: 14th Annual Salute the Troops Memorial Races
• Date: May 23, 2026
• Location: Lakeside Park, Fond Du Lac, WI
• Race URL: Sign Up Here

🏃‍♂️ Race Events

• Timed Events: 10K run, 5K run/walk, kids ‘fun run’ for children 12 and under
• Non-Timed Events: 10K Ruck March, 5K Ruck March
• Course Features: Wheelchair friendly, 3 award divisions for wheeled participants
• Purpose: Raise money for Salute the Troops of Wisconsin and NAMI

🏅 Memorial 5K Run/Walk

• In Memory: The event honors Derek Dobagi, a heroic soldier.
• Background: Derek served in the U.S. Army and made the ultimate sacrifice.
• Family Tribute: Since 2009, a Memorial 5K Race has been held in his honor.
• Community Impact: All events benefit local veterans and suicide prevention efforts.

🏕️ Ruck Information

• Honoring Veterans: Rucking serves to remember the fallen and deployed soldiers.
• Inspiration: Tributes to Brandon Michael, who struggled after returning from service.
• Mission: Advocate for change and acknowledge unsung heroes.
• Quote: "Heroes don’t wear capes, they wear dog tags."

📅 Important Details

• Registration: Online registration remains open until race day.
• Shirt Availability: Race shirts are not guaranteed after May 5, 2022.
• Memorial Boot Garden: Participants can submit a tribute for veterans.
• Details Submission: Email race@salutethetroopswi.org by Friday, May 27 at noon.

🕒 Tentative Race Day Schedule

• 5:30 AM: Onsite registration opens (ends 10 minutes before each race start)
• 6:30 AM: Brandon Michael Memorial 10K Ruck March START
• 6:45 AM: Opening Ceremony
• 7:00 AM: 10K START
• 7:30 AM: 5K run & 5K Ruck March START
• 10:00 AM: 10K COURSE CUTOFF
• 9:00 AM: KIDS RACE START
• 9:30 AM: AWARDS
• Course Closure: Course closes at noon