A national movement challenge inspired by the legacy of Army Spc. Lori Ann Piestewa will bring veterans, military families and supporters together for a week of remembrance later this month.
The 2026 Piestewa Challenge, organized by the nonprofit wear blue: run to remember, will take place March 23 to March 29. Participants across the country will form teams to collectively complete 250 miles in seven days while honoring the service and sacrifice of women in the U.S. military.
The challenge is named for Piestewa, the first Native American woman service member killed in combat on foreign soil and the first female service member to fall in Iraq. She died in 2003 after joining the Army to provide a future for her children, and her legacy continues to inspire remembrance events nationwide. She was from Tuba City, Ariz.
The event is designed to be inclusive and accessible. Teams of up to eight participants can complete the 250-mile goal through running, walking, biking, swimming or other forms of movement. Individuals can also register and join existing teams if they do not have a full group.
Participants log their activity through an online tracking platform, which converts different types of movement into “activity miles,” allowing people of all abilities to contribute to the shared goal.
Organizers say the challenge serves as both a tribute and a way to bring communities together through purposeful activity.
“At a time when our nation feels heavy, the Piestewa Challenge reminds us that movement can bring us back together,” said Ryan Taniguchi, director of community runs for wear blue: run to remember. “Every mile we move carries a name, a story, and a legacy. During this somber moment for our country, we step forward as one community to honor, to remember, and to stand united in gratitude for the women who have served and sacrificed.”
March 23 holds special significance. The date marks the anniversary associated with Piestewa’s service and sacrifice and has become a day dedicated to recognizing women who have served in the armed forces.
The challenge is free and open to participants nationwide. Sponsors supporting the 2026 event include Comcast, TriWest and Microsoft.
wear blue: run to remember describes itself as a national community that honors military service through movement, connection and active remembrance. Its programs bring together veterans, active-duty service members, military families, Gold Star families and civilians who want to honor those who served.
Registration for the 2026 Piestewa Challenge is currently open through the organization’s website.
