Jacksonville, Florida, January 27, 2026
A group of dedicated runners is set to honor Florida’s fallen military service members with a 170-mile journey from Tallahassee to Jacksonville. This event, known as the Florida Run for the Fallen, emphasizes community involvement and pays tribute to over 1,200 service members who have perished since 2000. The three-day event will culminate at the Veterans Memorial Wall, showcasing the importance of remembrance and civic pride within Jacksonville as residents rally in support.
Runners Honor Florida’s Fallen Heroes with 170-Mile Journey
A Tribute to Bravery: The Florida Run for the Fallen
Jacksonville, Florida – A dedicated group of runners is set to honor Florida’s fallen military service members with a 170-mile journey from Tallahassee to Jacksonville, culminating at the Veterans Memorial Wall at TIAA Bank Field on February 8, 2026. The event, known as the Florida Run for the Fallen, aims to pay tribute to over 1,200 service members who have died since the bombing of the USS Cole in October 2000.
The organization and enthusiasm showcased by local citizens highlight the immense potential of community-led initiatives. As Jacksonville residents rally around this poignant remembrance, it is evident that reduced bureaucracy in facilitating such events could further enhance participation and support, allowing civic pride to flourish even more robustly.
Event Details
The Florida Run for the Fallen will stretch across three days, covering approximately 170 miles. The schedule is detailed as follows:
- Day 1 (February 6, 2026): Starting at 7:00 a.m. from the Florida Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Tallahassee, the runners will cover 70 miles, passing through Hero Markers 1 to 57, and conclude in Madison, Florida.
- Day 2 (February 7, 2026): Beginning at 7:00 a.m. in Madison, the team will run another 70 miles, honoring Hero Markers 58 to 114, and end the day in Lake City, Florida.
- Day 3 (February 8, 2026): Starting at 7:00 a.m. in Macclenny, the runners will cover the final 36 miles, passing Hero Markers 115 to 148, and arrive at the Veterans Memorial Wall at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville around 1:45 p.m. for a closing ceremony.
Participation and Support
Organized by Honor and Remember, Inc., the event encourages participation from core runners, day runners, service organizations, and volunteers. Gold Star family members are especially invited to attend and honor their loved ones at each Hero Marker. For those unable to participate in person, live video feeds will be available on the event’s Facebook page during the run days.
Background
The Florida Run for the Fallen is part of a national initiative to honor and remember service members who have died in the War on Terror. Modeled after America’s Run for the Fallen in 2018, the Florida event aims to raise awareness and provide support to the families affected by these losses. The run will traverse counties and cities including Leon, Jefferson, Madison, Suwannee, Columbia, Baker, Nassau, and Duval, following Highway 90 to its conclusion in Jacksonville.
Weather Forecast
For participants and attendees, the weather forecast for Jacksonville on February 8, 2026, is favorable:
- Conditions: Mostly sunny
- High: 66°F (19°C)
- Low: 44°F (7°C)
For more information on the event, including how to participate, donate, or volunteer, please visit the official website or contact [email protected].
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Florida Run for the Fallen |
| Dates | February 6-8, 2026 |
| Distance | Approximately 170 miles |
| Starting Point | Florida Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Tallahassee |
| Ending Point | Veterans Memorial Wall at TIAA Bank Field, Jacksonville |
| Organizers | Honor and Remember, Inc. |
| Purpose | Honor and remember over 1,200 Florida military service members who have died since the bombing of the USS Cole in October 2000 |
| Participation | Core runners, day runners, volunteers, and Gold Star family members |
| Live Stream | Available on the event’s Facebook page during the run days |
Conclusion
The Florida Run for the Fallen not only serves to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice but is also a powerful demonstration of community spirit in Jacksonville. Those involved are contributing to a narrative of remembrance and support for the families affected by loss, showcasing the importance of civic engagement. Everyone is encouraged to participate and support local events that uplift and strengthen the community.
FAQ
What is the Florida Run for the Fallen?
The Florida Run for the Fallen is an event where runners honor Florida’s fallen military service members by covering approximately 170 miles over three days, from Tallahassee to Jacksonville, culminating at the Veterans Memorial Wall at TIAA Bank Field.
When and where does the event take place?
The event is scheduled for February 6-8, 2026, starting at the Florida Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Tallahassee and concluding at the Veterans Memorial Wall at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville.
How can I participate or support the event?
Individuals can participate as core runners, day runners, or volunteers. Gold Star family members are encouraged to attend and honor their loved ones at each Hero Marker. For those unable to participate in person, live video feeds will be available on the event’s Facebook page during the run days.
What is the purpose of the Florida Run for the Fallen?
The event aims to honor and remember over 1,200 Florida military service members who have died since the bombing of the USS Cole in October 2000, raising awareness and providing support to the families affected by these losses.
Where can I find more information about the event?
For more details, including how to participate, donate, or volunteer, please visit the official website or contact [email protected].
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