FAQs
What is a Massachusetts Run For The Fallen?
In 2012, Military Friends Foundation created the “Massachusetts Run For The Fallen” to honor those Massachusetts fallen heroes who have given their lives in military service since horrific September 11, 2001 attacks. The run is dedicated to keeping the legacy of these Heroes alive and showing their families that WE WILL NEVER FORGET. 100% of your donations provide critical grants and programs for military families and families of Fallen Heroes right here in the Bay State. This will be our 10th Annual Massachusetts Run For The Fallen and your support stays right here in Massachusetts to support families and families of Fallen Heroes through our official charity Military Friends Foundation (37-1462599).
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***Event Highlights***
9:30AM: Fallen Hero Name Reading
10:30AM: 5K Run Start ***This is a timed event***
11:00AM-1:00PM: Post Race BBQ & Family Festivities
How far is a Massachusetts Run For The Fallen Run & Walk?
This is a 5K (3.1 miles). Anyone can run, walk, ruck or experience this event.
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Where can I pick up my packet?
Packet pick up will be available from 8:00AM to 9:00AM on the morning of the event at Barnes Memorial Park.
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Can I register the day of the run?
Yes. Same day registration is $40. Registration will open at 8am the morning of the run at Barnes Memorial Park. You’ll save time if you register in advance. Late registration may not receive a t-shirt.
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Who is honored at the run?
Massachusetts Run For The Fallen recognizes Global War on Terror, Fallen Service Members whose home of record was Massachusetts (or who had strong ties to the state) and who died on active duty or lost their lives to PTSD due to their military service since September 11, 2001 (post 9/11 servicemembers).Massachusetts Run For The Fallen works with the MA Department of Veterans’ Services which oversees the names of the Fallen from the state’s official list. We recognize that not all families may be on this list and we welcome any family member who would like their Global War on Terror Fallen Service Member added to the MA Run For The Fallen Hero Wall to contact us at Info@militaryfriends.org or 1-84-HELP-VETS if they are interested in having their loved one added.
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Will there be awards for running?
Yes, we keep them very simple since our mission is to honor our Fallen Heroes. Awards will given to 1) top overall finishers 2) top overall child finisher 3) top uniform military finisher 4) top uniform firefighter finishers and 5) top uniform law enforcement finisher. This event is intended to be an experience and much more than a run.
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Will water be available?
There are 2 water stations on the course. Water will be available post race. Please bring your own hydration for pre-race.
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What can you bring to the event? Can I run with a stroller, backpack, wheelchair, etc?
Strollers and wheelchairs are permitted. Backpacks are also permitted but there is no bag check. Firefighter in turnout gear, uniformed police and military rucks are also permitted. Please leave all personal items and valuables in your vehicle. All items should be stored securely at the owner's risk.
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Does my registration fee count towards my fundraising goal?
Your registration fee does not count toward the fundraising goal.
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How can my company/organization sponsor this event?
Please send all sponsorship correspondence to info@militaryfriends.org with your contact information and someone will be in touch with you within 24 hours. You can also reach our team at 1--84-HELP-VETS.
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I would like to donate goods or services to this event. How do I do that?
You can contact us at info@militaryfriends.org. We make every effort to keep costs down to allow us to give the most to the Military Friends Foundation. Your generosity will be greatly appreciated.
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As a participant, can I fundraise/encourage others to donate?
Yes! When you registered, you will be given an opportunity to start your own fundraising page and you will be able to accept donations online. Do you want to donate cash/money? We can help you with that. Please be sure to give us your information so we can credit it to your fundraising page. Contact us at info@militaryfriends.org and we can walk you through the process or you can send donations directly to:
Military Friends Foundation
212 Humphrey Street
Swampscott, MA 01907
How can I volunteer?
It's simple! Click here or email us at info@militaryfriends.org and we will reply within 24 hours. Volunteers are always needed for the day of festivities. Thank you for your support!
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Does Massachusetts Run For The Fallen offer fundraising incentives?
Yes, we offer fundraising incentives each year. Participants who raise $250 or more (by September 8th) can earn a "Freedom Isn't Free" YETI. Have you received cash or check donations? Please be sure to contact us at info@militaryfriends.org so we can have these donations added to your online fundraising page.
What is the race course?
The 3.1 mile course Starts and Finishes at Barnes Memorial Park. See map below for the official course route.
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The course begins on Eastern Ave at Barnes Memorial Field, facing the Dedham Middle School.
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​Right onto East Street.
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​Right onto Jersey Street.
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Left onto Central Ave.
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Left onto Rustcraft Rd.
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Cross East Street and continue straight on Jefferson Street.
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Left onto Shiretown Rd.
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Left onto Madison Street.
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Right onto East Street.
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Left onto Eastern Ave.
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Right into Barnes Memorial Field driveway to the Finish Line.
What does the race registration support?
Massachusetts Run For The Fallen is a free event for families of the Fallen. Your donation helps cover their costs for the event including food, Fallen Hero Honor Markers, Family of the Fallen t-shirts and more. Donations also help provide year round support for our military family and Gold Star Family grants and programs. Thank you for your support!
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Do I have to wear my bib number?
Yes, please display your bib on the front of your outermost garment above the waist.
Do registrants get receipts?
When you register online you will automatically receive your receipt via email.
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Do donors get receipts?
When you donate online, the donor will automatically receive a receipt via email. Donations are tax deductible. We encourage you to reach out to thank your donors directly.
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Can someone else pick up my packet for me?
Yes, they can. They must present a copy of your registration receipt or ID.
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Can I still donate to a team and/or individual after the start of the race?
Yes. Donations will be accepted for 4 weeks after the event.
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Is there a medical staff available on-site?
Yes, there will be an Emergency Medical Service team available on site.
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Can I get a refund?
We do not provide refunds for any reason.