September 17, 2026
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — The MTSU Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center and Blue Raider Football are proud to host the 44th Annual Salute to Veterans and Armed Forces Football Game this Saturday, Sept. 19, when MTSU takes on the Nevada Wolf Pack at 6 p.m. at Floyd Stadium. More Sports News
As our nation marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, this year’s game provides a meaningful opportunity to honor the courage, sacrifice and service of America’s veterans, active-duty military members, first responders and their families. The Salute to Veterans and Armed Forces Game is the longest-running military appreciation football game in NCAA history and has become one of MTSU’s most cherished traditions.
Thanks to our partners at Mid-South Ford Dealers and the MTSU Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center, the day will be filled with events and activities recognizing those who serve our nation and communities. Highlights include a pregame flyover by MTSU’s Professional Pilot Program, a game ball drone delivery by MTSU’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations Program, military recognitions throughout the game and a variety of static displays around the stadium.
Tickets for Veterans, Active-Duty Service Members and First Responders
Veterans, active-duty service members, first responders and their families will receive complimentary admission to the game. Tickets may be picked up beginning at 2:30 p.m. during the Pregame Picnic and Veteran Village in Walnut Grove. Groups wishing to secure tickets prior to Saturday should email dvmfc@mtsu.edu with their organization name and ticket request.
Veterans can claim tickets in advance at VetTix.org.
Seats for Soldiers
Fans who would like to support military families can do so through MTSU’s Seats for Soldiers initiative. For just $15 per ticket with no additional fees, fans can purchase tickets that will be matched by MTSU Athletics and distributed directly to veterans, active-duty military members and their families. Purchase Seats for Soldiers tickets HERE!
Ticket Give Back Program
Season ticket holders and fans who have already purchased tickets but are unable to attend Saturday’s game can donate their tickets through Vet Tix up to 48 hours before kickoff. Vet Tix distributes donated tickets to currently serving military members, veterans and the immediate families of troops killed in action. Instructions for donating tickets can be found HERE!
Donation Drive
The Student Veterans of America MTSU BRAVO Chapter will host a food drive benefiting the MTSU Student Food Pantry. Fans are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items to support MTSU students in need. To learn more about the MTSU Student Food Pantry and view a list of its most-needed items, click HERE!
Donations may be dropped off at the Customer Service Lifeguard Chairs outside each gate of Floyd Stadium or at Veteran Village in Walnut Grove.
Salute Merchandise
Fans can purchase official MTSU Salute to Veterans and Armed Forces merchandise through the official team store:
Proceeds from all Salute merchandise sales benefit the MTSU Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center. Please note that all merchandise is produced and shipped by a third-party vendor. Delivery before Saturday’s game cannot be guaranteed.
Saturday Schedule
1:30 p.m. | Veterans Memorial Service
The Veterans Memorial Service returns to the Tom Jackson Building this year and will honor veterans of the War for Independence, America’s first veterans.
The ceremony will include a moment of silence, a guest speaker and the presentation of the 2026 Dr. Joe Nunley Award.
More information:
2:30 p.m. | Pregame Picnic & Veteran Village
Following the Memorial Service, MTSU Athletics will host a complimentary tailgate in Walnut Grove for veterans, active-duty service members, first responders and their family members. Food and beverages will be available while supplies last.
Veterans, active-duty service members, first responders and their families can pick up their complimentary game tickets during the tailgate.
Veteran Village will also provide opportunities for attendees to connect with organizations and resources available to veterans and military families.
3:00 p.m. | Party in the Grove
Party in the Grove, the official pregame tailgate of Blue Raider Football, begins three hours before kickoff in Walnut Grove. Fans can enjoy live entertainment, sponsored activities, food trucks and the opportunity to welcome the Blue Raiders during Raider Walk.
More information can be found HERE:
3:30 p.m. | Band of Blue & Raider Walk
Join the Band of Blue and Spirit Squad as they help welcome the Blue Raider football team to campus before kickoff.
6:00 p.m. | MTSU Football vs. Nevada
Fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 5:30 p.m. for the Band of Blue Pregame Show and a special game ball delivery by MTSU’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations Program.
Throughout the game, MTSU will recognize military alumni, honor each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces and celebrate one of the day’s most meaningful traditions: the Halftime Military Parade.
All current service members and veterans are invited to participate in the parade. Participants should report to the Gate 2A vomitory near Lightning’s Locker Room with five minutes remaining in the second quarter. Reminder announcements will be made throughout the game.