Boots on the Ground for Heroes 5K

Operation Stand Down RI logo

From Operation Stand Down RI

  • Date Sat 23rd May 2026
  • Time 9:00AM EDT
  • Location Newport, Rhode Island
  • Price $38.10
  • Races 1 race

Event summary

Join us for the Boots on the Ground for Heroes 5K, hosted by Operation Stand Down Rhode Island, on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in the beautiful city of Newport. This inspiring event will take place at the picturesque Fort Adams State Park, where participants will walk or run in honor of the 29 brave Rhode Islanders who lost their lives post 9/11 in the Global War on Terror. The day will kick off with a heartfelt 25-minute ceremony at 9:30 AM, followed by the Run/Walk starting at 10:00 AM.

As you navigate the scenic course, you'll be surrounded by the powerful Boots on the Ground for Heroes Memorial, which features over 7,000 boots representing U.S. service members killed in action since 9/11. This impactful exhibition has touched the hearts of thousands and serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by our heroes. Proceeds from the event will support the Memorial and Operation Stand Down Rhode Island, the leading non-profit organization dedicated to aiding homeless and at-risk veterans. Don't miss out on this meaningful opportunity to honor our fallen heroes while supporting a worthy cause—register today and receive an exclusive 2026 event t-shirt!

Organiser's Description

The Boots on the Ground for Heroes Memorial 5K Walk/Run will take place following a ceremony honoring the 29 Rhode Islanders killed post 9/11 in the Global War on Terror. The course will run through picturesque Fort Adams State Park and begin and end on the parade field inside the historic Fort. Proceeds from the 5k will support the Memorial and Operation Stand Down Rhode Island, the States primary non-profit serving homeless and at-risk veterans.

Registered participants are asked to arrive beginning at 8:30. A 25-minute ceremony honoring the fallen will begin at 9:30, followed by the start of the Run/Walk at 10:00 am.



The Boots on the Ground for Heroes Memorial was launched by OSDRI in 2016. The Memorial depicts over 7,000 boots adorned with flags and name placards representing the lives of the U.S. service members killed in action post-9/11 in the Global War on Terror. The exhibition has been seen by tens of thousands of visitors since its creation. Every fallen service member is included in the Memorial; service members are alphabetized by state, allowing individuals to locate friends, comrades, and loved ones. Tragically, the Memorial continues to grow each year as the Global War on Terror continues.

Every participant will receive 2026 Boots on the Ground for Heroes t-shirt.

Races

  • 5k

    Incl. $3.10 Fee & T-Shirt

    Sat 23rd May 2026 (9:00AM EDT)

    $38.10

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Location

80 Fort Adams Drive, Newport, 02840, RI, United States

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May 23, 2026

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