Vest Up 4 the Fallen

Push your limits at the "Vest Up 4 the Fallen #SIXFIVE - Boston 2 Bourne," a continuous 65-mile tribute walk honoring our fallen heroes. Beginning at the historic 54th Regiment Memorial in Boston, we journey through challenging terrain to Bourne National Cemetery in Cape Cod.

This is more than just a walk—it’s a transformative journey of resilience and sacrifice. Every step carries the weight of those we honor, demanding both physical strength and inner courage. Join us and be part of something greater.

The journey is not just a physical challenge—it’s a bond forged in pain, sweat, and triumph. Together, we push past our limits, discovering a strength we never knew we had. Every step is a vow to honor their bravery, a pledge to live with the same unwavering resilience they showed.

Vest Up 4 the Fallen isn’t a race against time; it’s a personal odyssey. It forces us to confront our purpose, our limits, and what truly matters. With every mile, we reflect on the sacrifices made, embracing the legacy of courage, selflessness, and enduring strength.

Join us in remembrance, as we honor their sacrifice and carry their spirit forward. Together, we stand firm in their ideals, committed to a future worthy of their sacrifice—a future where their bravery is cherished, never forgotten, and their legacy lives on forever.

This year, we proudly recognize 6 families of fallen military members—one from each branch of service. Their loved ones gave everything to protect our freedom, and we are humbled to celebrate their legacies.
 

Note: You are responsible for a Ride to drop you off at the Start and Pick you up at the Finish. 

Start Location: Boston Common; Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial, Boston, MA 
Registration Gathering Date & Time: 3:30am Sunday, May 24, 2026
Ceremony Starts at 4:30a.m
Step Off Time: 5:00am 
Ending Date: Memorial Day Monday May 25, 2026
Ending ETA: 9:30-10:30am (ETA means estimated time of arrival)
Ending Location: Massachusetts National Cemetery, Connery Ave, Buzzards Bay, MA 02542 

**** There are designated check-in points along the route where you'll be asked for your ID Number, even if you're just passing through and continuing your journey. At each check-in, participants can easily retrieve their gear, adjust their footwear, change socks, and take care of any needs. The Main Check-in Vehicle will arrive before the first team member and remain until the last team member has passed. 

The mission is to arrive at the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Connery Ave, Buzzards Bay, MA 02542, on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 2026. 

******* Please note You can have a family member of friend also be your support vehicle but you will have to let our Logistics Team know ahead of time. Please contact Tim Sylvia Smith at timothysylvia.smith@yahoo.com

Want Friends and Family to Track Your Progress?

If you'd like your family and friends to follow your journey during Vest Up 4 The Fallen, consider downloading one of the following tracking apps ahead of time:

Life360
Glympse
Geo

ZillaFoursquare Swarm

These apps allow real-time location sharing so your supporters can cheer you on from wherever they are!
 

Why Don't We Run?
Running may allow for quicker travel, but it minimizes the physical and mental challenges that walking brings. This journey is designed to push you beyond your comfort zone. Walking, however, forces you to face each step, reminding you of the burden you carry and the mental strength required to keep going. Yet, this challenge pales in comparison to the unimaginable weight, mental anguish, and heartbreak that the families of the fallen endure every day.

Our mottos, “Do You Have What It Takes?” and “What’s Your Why?”, have inspired many to join this 65-mile march. Each person’s motivation is unique, and each has delved deep within to find the answer to these powerful questions.

What’s the Significance of Wearing the Vest?

The Vest is not just a piece of equipment; it is a profound symbol of honor, sacrifice, and remembrance. It stands as a tribute to the unyielding courage of our military members who gave everything to protect our freedoms. This garment is a tangible representation of the unwavering spirit, strength, and resilience that defines those who served.

Each patch, insignia, and adornment carries the weight of immeasurable loss and unwavering dedication. Wearing the Vest is a visceral reminder of the immense sacrifices made, a burden that represents not only physical endurance but also the emotional and mental fortitude required to carry the memory of the fallen.

Those who wear the Vest are not just individuals—they are part of an unbreakable brotherhood, bound by a sacred mission to honor the fallen and ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten. The discomfort of the physical burden is nothing compared to the weight borne by the families of the fallen—whose grief and loss are far heavier than any vest could ever be. The true weight lies in the sacrifice, the sorrow, and the commitment to live a life worthy of their legacy.

How Much Should Your Vest Weigh?

The choice is yours, but we strongly suggest not carrying too much weight. Keep it manageable to focus on the journey, not the burden.

Can I Wear a Ruck?
While we encourage participants to wear a vest due to its symbolic meaning, we will not discourage anyone from wearing a ruck if that is their preference.

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Registration Levels/Costs

Important: Registrations received after May 4th may not guarantee a shirt.

Standard Registration Fee: $65.00 (just $1 per mile)

Opting Out of the $65 Fee by Fundraising: This is a fundraising event to support Give2Those and their mission to help and honor our nation’s heroes and their families. Please carefully consider this option before proceeding. The deadline to raise the $250.00 is May 26, 2026, at 11:59 PM EDT.

Please Note: If you choose to fundraise, you can opt out of paying the $65 registration fee.

Follow the instructions on the 4th page to enroll as a fundraiser.

Select “Become a Fundraiser” and choose the $250.00 option. This will automatically waive your registration fee.

Fundraise $250.00 or more, and you will receive a $65 refund once you meet the fundraising goal.

To qualify for the refund, you must raise $250.00 or more.

IMPORTANT: When setting up your fundraiser, you must check the box indicating your desire for a refund upon reaching the goal. This step is essential to ensure you are eligible for the refund. Without checking the box, the refund cannot be processed. If you opt out of the $65 registration fee and fail to meet the $250 fundraising goal, you will be required to pay the full $250 or cover the remaining balance. This ensures event expenses are met and prevents no-shows.

Exclusive swag 🎁 will be available for those who raise additional funds. See the details below! 👇
 

🌟 Exclusive SWAG LEVELS 🌟

$150.00 – The Essential Starter Pack

🎟️ Registration Fee Waived
🏅 Limited Edition VU4TF Pin

$250.00 – The Signature Collection

🎟️ Registration Fee Waived
🏅 Limited Edition VU4TF Pin
🧢 VU4TF Camo Hat with Hat Clip

$500.00 – The Premium Experience

🎟️ Registration Fee Waived
🏅 Limited Edition VU4TF Pin
🧢 VU4TF Camo Hat with Hat Clip
🚩 Exclusive VU4TF 3x5 Flag

$1,000.00 – The Ultimate Package

🎟️ Registration Fee Waived
🏅 Limited Edition VU4TF Pin
🧢 VU4TF Camo Hat with Hat Clip
🚩 Exclusive VU4TF 3x5 Flag
🧥 VU4TF Hoodie

$1,500.00 – The Prestige Collection:

🎟️ Registration Fee Waived
🏅 Limited Edition VU4TF Pin
🧢 VU4TF Camo Hat with Hat Clip
🚩 Exclusive VU4TF 3x5 Flag
🧥 VU4TF Hoodie
🏆 Woobie Hoodie 

$2,500.00 – The Elite Experience:

🎟️ Registration Fee Waived
🏅 Limited Edition VU4TF Pin
🧢 VU4TF Camo Hat with Hat Clip
🚩 Exclusive VU4TF 3x5 Flag
💧 Custom VU4TF Cirkul Water Bottle
🧥 VU4TF Hoodie
🏆 Limited Edition 
🧥 Woobie Hoodie 

You have until May 5th to guarantee your fundraiser items. After that date, we cannot ensure availability due to ordering and stock limitations.

Top Individual Fundraiser: Raise $2,500 or more to win a 4ft Soldier Statue. (Only one winner for the overall Top Individual Fundraiser.)

Top Team Fundraiser: Raise $5,000 or more as a team to win a 4ft Soldier Statue. (Only one statue awarded to the overall Top Team Fundraiser.)

Vest Up 4 the Fallen Team Relay - Due top logistics You Can Not Run

Vest Up 4 the Fallen Relay is designed to appeal to a wide range of participants, from competitive athletes to beginners and everyone in between. With its inclusive approach, Vest Up 4 the Fallen welcomes individuals of all fitness levels who are looking for a unique and challenging team experience. In this exciting event, standard teams are typically made up of 4-12 people each contributing their individual strength and determination to cover the 65 mile course. Throughout the event, participants get the opportunity to indulge in the camaraderie and team spirit that Vest Up 4 the Fallen is known for, forging lasting memories and friendships along the way.

If you're looking for a fun and exciting way to bring people together, look no further than forming a team with friends, family, or even strangers. To get started, select a captain who will lead the group and coordinate the team's efforts. Once you have your captain, it's time to gather your crew and prepare for some relay-style action! As the team members take turns participating in the relay, they'll enjoy the opportunity to showcase their individual strengths while relying on their teammates' support. 

You must provide your own support vehicle.

Each team member has to do miles which can be split along course however your relay team sees fit.  

ALL Teams MUST be at the ceremony in Bourne regardless of what time you finish.

Teams have to check in at check in with the Coordinator at each check in point

So, don't hesitate to pick a captain, round up your crew, and embark on an adventure filled with thrilling relay races. Get ready to unleash your inner athlete, cheer for one another, and experience the joy of being part of a winning team.

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Registration After May 1st Shirt Size will Not be Guaranteed nor is it Guaranteed to even get a shirt. 

Please post your miles & time on the Facebook Vest Up 4 the Fallen #sixfive Group or email us at info@give2those.org

Each Registered Participant Will Receive:

Official Vest Up 4 The Fallen T-shirt 👕
Fueling Snacks and Water will be provided 💧🍫
(Hydration is provided along the whole course, but we recommend bringing your own hydration before you arrive and at step-off)
Pizza from Alumni Sports Cafe in Pembroke, MA - 25.2 miles into the event 🍕
Shaved Ice along the route for a refreshing treat 🍧❄️
Completion Patch for those who finish the full and relay

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More About the Event:

The team will march down RT53 and 3A South, passing through the cities and towns of Boston, Quincy, Weymouth, Hingham, Norwell, Hanover, Pembroke, Duxbury, Kingston, Plymouth, Bourne, and Buzzards Bay, ultimately reaching the Massachusetts National Cemetery on Memorial Day, Monday, May 27, 2024.

Support vehicles will be stationed along the route to assist as needed.

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What Gear to Pack 🧳 If highlighted in yellow, it’s a MUST!

ID – Always carry your identification on you. 🆔
Reflective Gear, Flashlight, and Blinking Light for the back of your vest. 💡✨
Headlamp – A must-have for visibility. 🕯️
Battery Pack & Phone Charging Cord – Stay connected and powered up. 📱🔋
Warm Jacket, Gloves, and Hat – The Cape can get chilly! 🧥🧣🧤
At least 1 Emergency Blanket – Better safe than sorry! 🌨️
Hand Warmers – Perfect for those Cape winds. 🖐️🔥
A few pairs of socks – Trust us, you’ll be changing them at least once! 🧦💨
Body Powder – Keep fresh and comfortable on the go. 🌿✨
Band-Aid Brand Hydro Seal All-Purpose Adhesive – For any unexpected blisters. 🚑
Extra set of clothes – If rain is in the forecast, pack a backup! 🌧️👕
Be prepared, stay safe, and keep pushing forward! 💪

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Safety is Our #1 Priority! 🚨
There will be a safety briefing at the start of the event. Please read through these important guidelines:

1. Carry your ID at all times. 🆔
2. Be aware of potential hazards: automobile traffic 🚗, wildlife 🦊, and unpredictable weather 🌧️ on the open roads, pathways, and walkways.
3. Stay alert and take all necessary precautions for a safe event. Our route is not free of traffic, so use good judgment at all times, especially on blind curves and areas lacking sidewalks. 🚶‍♂️💡
4. Headphones: Listening to music with both ears in can be dangerous. Stay aware of your surroundings by using one earpiece only. 🎧👂
5. Hydrate: Pre-hydrate before the event and continue to hydrate during. Electrolyte drinks like Gatorade or Powerade are great for replenishment. 💧⚡If it’s hot, keep your core body temperature cool. Pour cold water on your head and neck or slow your pace if needed to stay safe. 🧊🔥
6. Bathroom breaks: If you stop to use the bathroom, you must catch up to the team on foot—no rides allowed. This event is about honoring our fallen heroes, and cutting corners cheats not just yourself, but their memory. 💪🇺🇸
7. Respect private property: Be mindful of the neighbors—do not relieve yourself in their bushes. 🌿
8. Respect the outdoors: Please do not litter. Keep the environment as clean as we found it. 🌍

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What if you need to quit/tap out?
If you need to tap out, please inform a volunteer or the event director before leaving.

Important: You are responsible for arranging your own transportation from your drop-out location.
For safety purposes, be sure to notify a volunteer or event director, as we track participants through a body count system.

Your presence matters. You are an essential part of this team, beyond just Tap Out. We ask that you join us at the Massachusetts National Cemetery for the final, meaningful ceremony. Let’s honor our heroes together.

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How Did Vest Up 4 The Fallen, Boston 2 Bourne Begin?

In 2020, as the Covid-19 pandemic halted life and led to the cancellation of Memorial Day ceremonies nationwide, the President and Founder of Give2Those.org witnessed the heartbreak of Gold Star Families, Veterans, Active Duty Members, and Patriots who were devastated by the loss of these vital tributes. Motivated by their collective disappointment, she believed that Memorial Day should never be canceled and that honoring our fallen heroes was more important than ever.

With this conviction, she set a bold, personal goal: to walk 65 miles, from Boston Common to the Massachusetts National Cemetery, wearing a vest as a symbol of remembrance and respect for the sacrifices made by our service members. She was joined by a dedicated group of Gold Star Families, Active Duty Members, First Responders, and Patriots, all walking side by side in unity, strength, and honor.

Following the event, many reached out, expressing their desire for this powerful tribute to continue. And  in 2021 and beyond, we have prepared for another journey every Memorial Day weekend—one that will require unwavering dedication, resilience, and every ounce of physical and mental strength. This is not just a walk; it is a commitment to honor those who gave everything for our freedom.
 
 The question stands: DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?

*******A Message from a Proud Vest Up 4 The Fallen Supporter ******* 

Participating in Vest Up 4 The Fallen was more than just an event — it was a deeply meaningful experience that I’ll carry with me for a long time.

Wearing that weighted vest, step after step, I felt the weight of sacrifice — not just physically, but emotionally. It was a powerful reminder of the men and women who have laid down their lives for this country, for our freedoms, and for each one of us. I didn’t just walk for myself — I walked for them. For the heroes whose names we know, and for the many whose stories we may never hear but who gave everything in service to this nation.

Being surrounded by others who share that same sense of respect, gratitude, and purpose was incredibly moving. Whether it was in quiet reflection, in shared stories, or in moments of unity, there was something special about knowing we were all walking with a common mission — to honor our fallen heroes and make sure they are never forgotten.

I truly believe in the heart behind Vest Up 4 The Fallen. The impact it has on individuals, families, and our community is real. 

Let’s keep vesting up. Let’s keep showing up. For our nation. For our fallen. For each other.

Sincerely,

A Proud Supporter of Vest Up 4 The Fallen

****This event raises funds for Give2Those.org, a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to supporting recreational therapy programs that enhance the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of veterans, active duty personnel, first responders, and their families.