AFD FIELD MESS 2026

April 16-19, 2026 - Lake Martinez, AZ

What is OUR Field Mess?

Our Field Mess is the first annual military festival designed exclusively for veterans, active duty service members, and their families. Over three unforgettable days at Lake Martinez, Arizona, you'll experience the camaraderie of military life through competition, training, networking, and celebration.
This isn't just another event—it's a gathering of warriors, a celebration of service, and an opportunity to connect with resources that can change your life.
Whether you're looking to reconnect with your military roots, compete against other branches, or access critical resources for your future, Field Mess is where you belong.

the field mess experience

Keynote
speakers

Hear from Medal of Honor and Navy Cross recipients. Real stories of leadership, sacrifice, and service from those who've been there.

Nightly
Bonfires

Gather around the fire each night to share stories, build connections, and experience the camaraderie that only comes from shared service.

Live fire
range

Test your skills on the range with certified RSOs ensuring safety. All skill levels welcome. Compete, train, and prove your marksmanship.

X-Games
competitions

Challenge yourself and your team in events designed to test skill, teamwork, and grit. Compete for pride, glory, and bragging rights.

networking 
& resources

Connect with fellow veterans and access critical resources including financial planning, VA claims assistance, legal support, and home loans.

meals
& Mre

Relive the field experience with one authentic MRE, then celebrate together at the farewell dinner. Two meals included in your ticket.

tickets include

✓ 3-Day Festival Access (April 16-19)

✓ Keynote Speaker Sessions

✓ Live Fire Range Access (with RSOs)

✓ Competition Entry

✓ Official Field Mess Gear (Hat, Shirt, Commemorative Coin)

✓ One MRE + Farewell Dinner

✓ Camping Site Access

✓ Nightly Bonfire Gatherings

✓ Resource Partner Sessions (Financial, Legal, VA Claims, Home Loans)

✓ Networking Opportunities

Early Bird: $210 (until Feb 28) | Regular: $260

Additional gear (hoodies, Woobies, Etc.) available for purchase

BYO camping gear required

get your tickets

early bird ticket

$210 $260
Ends Feb 28
non- transferable

Sponser a veteran

$210 $260 sale ends Feb 28
Can't make it? Know someone who can't afford it?
Sponsor a veteran's attendance through our partner organizations

All ticket sales are final. No refunds. Tickets are non-transferable. Liability waiver required upon purchase.

Gear Sales coming soon!

schedule

12:00 PM - Southern California Caravan Departs (Optional)

3:00 PM - Gates Open, Check-In Begins

3:00 PM - 7:00 PM - Camp Setup

7:00 PM - Welcome Bonfire & Opening Ceremony

Evening - S'mores & First Night Social

Breakfast (Self-Provided - Eat Before 9 AM)

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Live Fire Range

  • 1-mile from campsite
  • Certified RSOs on-site
  • All skill levels welcome
  • Guns ONLY at range - secure your weapon at all times

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM - Lunch Break (Self-Provided)

1:00 PM - 7:00 PM - Resource Sessions

  • Financial Planning
  • VA Disability Assistance
  • LegalShield
  • Homes for Heroes
  • Success Stories & More

7:00 PM - Dinner on your own- Bonfire & Networking

Breakfast (Self-Provided - Eat Before 9 AM)

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM - X Games-Style Competition

  • Team Events
  • Individual Challenges
  • Field Games

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM - Lunch Break (Self-Provided)

1:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Keynote Speaker Sessions

  • Navy Cross Recipients
  • Leadership & Service Stories
  • Speaker lineup to be announced
  • 7:00 PM - Farewell Dinner (Included)

Evening - Final Bonfire & Closing Remarks

9:00 AM- Military-Style Chapel Service with Chaplains

12:00 PM - Camp Breakdown

Safe Travels Home

Firearms are ONLY permitted at the designated range during scheduled range hours (Day 2, 9 AM - 12 PM). Weapons must remain secured at all other times. Violation of this policy will result in immediate removal from the event.

frequently asked questions

Bring your own camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, etc.). We provide the site, schedule, entertainment, and two meals.

Yes—one MRE and the farewell dinner are included. All other meals are self-provided.

Yes, but the event is designed for adults. Children are not prohibited but programming is adult-focused.

Tickets are non-refundable but semi-transferable. You can donate your ticket to the sponsorship pool.

Yes. All attendees must sign a liability waiver (sent after purchase) to participate.

Absolutely. All range activities are supervised by certified Range Safety Officers (RSOs).

Yes! Additional items like hoodies will be available for purchase on-site.

Select the "Sponsor a Veteran" ticket option. Your sponsored ticket will be distributed through partner organizations.

February 28, 2026. After that, tickets are $260.

READY TO JOIN THE RANKS?