Because of the Brave 5K
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Because of the Brave 5K : event overview
Because of the Brave 5K takes place on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 2026, at American Village in Montevallo, Alabama (3727 Highway 119). The event is organized by The Running Birds and American Village to honor service members who died for the United States. It is not a timed race and no awards are given. A portion of each entry fee will be donated to the Support Committee for the Alabama National Cemetery and to American Village. The Alabama National Cemetery is adjacent to American Village and holds an annual Memorial Day service after the event.
Course, logistics and services
The distance is 5K, run as two laps of a 1.55-mile loop that is marked with American flags. The full course is on paved surfaces, so strollers and wheelchairs are allowed. Each participant must carry a 2' x 3' American flag on a pole for the entire course; flags and poles are provided at packet pickup and are exchanged for a custom challenge coin at the finish. Packet pickup takes place on race day at the start/finish area near the main parking lots, where parking and restrooms are available. There is one water station at the start/finish area; water will be available at the halfway point and at the finish, and fruit will be provided at the finish. No refunds are offered; entries may be transferred or deferred to the next year. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.