Join us starting Friday, July 4, 2025 ~ Operation Freedom March

For all military Veterans, their families, and supporters — you are invited to participate in the first Arizona Trail “Operation Freedom March” campaign. This year-long initiative commences on July 4, 2025, and concludes on Independence Day, July 4, 2026, in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Operation Freedom March challenges participants to hike, ride, or horseback ride sections of the Arizona National Scenic Trail until ALL 800 MILES have collectively been covered by our community.

Purpose: To engage military Veterans, their families, and supporters in the Arizona America250 campaign, we propose the first Arizona Trail “Operation Freedom March” campaign, a year-long initiative commencing on July 4, 2025, and concluding on Independence Day, July 4, 2026. This campaign invites participants to hike, ride, or horseback ride sections of the Arizona National Scenic Trail, embodying the spirit of service and unity.

Register & Complete Info

Mission Objectives:

  • Engage the Ranks: Involve at least 250 members of Arizona’s military community, fostering camaraderie and shared purpose.
  • Allied Forces Welcome: To strengthen community bonds and encourage participation from families, supporters, and the general public.
  • Support the Mission: Fundraising opportunities for the Arizona Trail Association’s (ATA) Veterans Engagement and Trail Stewardship (VETS) Program, enhancing trail preservation and veteran support initiatives.

Operational Details:

  • Mission Launch: The campaign starts on July 4, 2025, symbolizing freedom and national pride.
  • Deployment Window: Participants can choose any time within the year-long window to complete their selected trail segments, allowing flexibility to accommodate individual schedules and capabilities.
  • Engagement Options: Participants may join established VETS Program activities or independently navigate trail segments, promoting inclusivity and personal challenge.

Command Structure:

  • Team Formation: Participants are encouraged to form units (teams) reflecting military squad structures, promoting teamwork and leadership.
  • Unit Leaders: Designate team leaders (e.g., “Squad Leaders”) to coordinate logistics, communication, and morale.

Community Engagement:

  • Allied Events: Organize community gatherings to deepen connections and shared purpose.
  • Storytelling Campaigns: Document and share your experiences through blogs, videos, or photo essays, enriching the campaign narrative.
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