09/26/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Join the Battle: Fighting Veteran Su***de at the Annual 'Battle of the Branches' Event
Phoenix, AZ – The Battle of the Branches is back. This annual event shines a light on the pressing issue of Veteran su***de while supporting programs that provide crucial assistance to Veterans and their families.
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs 2025 National Veteran Su***de Prevention Annual Report, the average number of Veteran su***des per day is alarmingly high, rising from 16.5 in 2001 to 17.5 in 2023. Arizona had the 7th highest number of Veteran su***des in the United States in 2023. Source: https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/.../2025_Annual_Report... (page 11).
The Rally Point Arizona Crisis Transition Navigation program plays a vital role in helping service members, Veterans, and their families when they need it most. This program tailors services to individualized needs, promoting self-sufficiency and resilience, and reducing the probability of future crises. Rally Point offers peer-based assistance, connecting military and community resources, and bridging the gap for those in need.
Rally Point Arizona is a program of La Frontera EMPACT-Su***de Prevention Center, a non-profit behavioral health agency providing comprehensive behavioral health services to youth, adults, and families in Maricopa and Pinal counties in Arizona. EMPACT’s commitment goes beyond the health and wellness of individuals and families, extending to the community as a whole. We provide prevention, training, and advocacy, and partner with other providers to build a safe, strong, and healthy Arizona.
Event Details:
What: 8th Annual Battle of the Branches 5K Run/Walk
When: Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 7:30 am to 9:30 am
Where: Arizona Falls, 5802 E. Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018
The event promises a friendly rivalry as all branches of the military – Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force – compete for bragging rights by registering the most participants from their branches. But it's not just about the run; it's about community, awareness, and support.
Join us for a day of unity, featuring Veteran information booths. The Battle of the Branches event is family-friendly, and all are invited to participate.
Your donations and proceeds from this event support services directed towards Veterans and their families in the fight against Veteran su***de.
For registration and more event details, visit
https://raceroster.com/.../battle-of-the-branches-5k-run
For more information about the event or to schedule an interview, please contact:
Wendy Philpot, Director of Crisis and Trauma Healing Services, EMPACT-Su***de Prevention Center
Phone: 480-784-1514, ext. 1116
Email: [email protected]
