The Armed Forces Bowl has become a cherished tradition in college football, celebrating the spirit of competition while paying tribute to the men and women of the United States military. Held annually in Fort Worth, Texas, this bowl game brings together top collegiate teams for an exciting postseason matchup that captivates fans and honors service members alike.
History
The Armed Forces Bowl was first played in 2003 under the name Fort Worth Bowl. The inaugural game featured a thrilling contest between two ranked teams, with No. 18 Boise State facing off against No. 19 TCU. This matchup set the stage for what would become a respected fixture in the college football postseason calendar.
In 2006, the bowl was renamed the Armed Forces Bowl, reflecting its commitment to honoring the U.S. military. This change in identity brought a new focus to the event, aligning it closely with the armed forces and creating a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from other bowl games.
Throughout its history, the Armed Forces Bowl has featured teams from various conferences, including the Mountain West, SEC, Big 12, and American Athletic Conference. The bowl has also developed special relationships with the service academies, with Army, Navy, and Air Force making frequent appearances.
One of the most significant milestones in the bowl’s history came in 2018 when it achieved its first sellout. The matchup between Army and Houston drew a capacity crowd, demonstrating the growing popularity and significance of the event.
Sponsor
Since 2014, the Armed Forces Bowl has been sponsored by Lockheed Martin, a prominent aerospace and defense company. This partnership has been instrumental in elevating the profile of the bowl and reinforcing its connection to the military community.
Lockheed Martin’s sponsorship reflects the company’s commitment to supporting service members and veterans. Approximately one in five of Lockheed Martin’s U.S. employees are either active-duty military members or veterans, underscoring the company’s deep ties to the armed forces.
The official title of the event is now the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl, a name that emphasizes both the corporate support and the military focus of the game.
Venue
The Armed Forces Bowl is primarily held at Amon G. Carter Stadium on the campus of Texas Christian University (TCU) in Fort Worth, Texas. This 45,000-seat venue provides an intimate yet electric atmosphere for the annual bowl game.
Amon G. Carter Stadium has undergone significant renovations over the years to enhance the fan experience. These improvements have helped maintain the stadium’s status as a premier location for college football events.
In 2010 and 2011, while Amon G. Carter Stadium was undergoing a major reconstruction project, the Armed Forces Bowl temporarily relocated to Gerald J. Ford Stadium in University Park, Texas. This brief change of venue demonstrated the bowl’s adaptability and commitment to providing a top-notch experience for teams and fans alike.
The return to Fort Worth in 2012 marked a homecoming for the bowl, reaffirming its ties to the local community and its place as a Fort Worth tradition.
Tickets
Securing tickets to the Armed Forces Bowl is a highlight for many college football fans. Ticket prices can vary depending on factors such as the participating teams, seat location, and overall demand for the game.
Fans interested in attending the Armed Forces Bowl have several options for purchasing tickets:
- Official Bowl Website: The official Armed Forces Bowl website often provides direct ticket sales, offering fans a reliable source for authentic tickets.
- Participating Schools: Once the teams are announced, each participating school typically receives an allotment of tickets to sell to their fans and alumni.
- Secondary Market: Websites like TicketSmarter, StubHub, and SeatGeek frequently have Armed Forces Bowl tickets available, sometimes at competitive prices.
- Box Office: Tickets may be available at the Amon G. Carter Stadium box office, especially closer to the game date.
For those seeking an enhanced experience, the Armed Forces Bowl may offer special packages that include additional perks such as premium seating, hospitality access, or exclusive events related to the bowl.
Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early, especially for potentially high-profile matchups. The 2018 sellout between Army and Houston demonstrated that demand can be high for certain games, making early ticket purchases advisable.
Game Day Experience
Attending the Armed Forces Bowl is more than just watching a football game; it’s a full-day celebration of college athletics and military service. The area around Amon G. Carter Stadium comes alive on game day with various activities and events designed to honor service members and entertain fans.
Typical game day experiences may include:
- Military displays and demonstrations
- Pre-game tailgating events
- Special ceremonies honoring veterans and active-duty personnel
- Performances by military bands and color guards
- Interactive fan zones with games and activities
The bowl organizers work hard to create a festive atmosphere that blends the excitement of postseason college football with a deep respect for the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces.
Impact on Fort Worth
The Armed Forces Bowl has become an important part of Fort Worth’s sports and cultural landscape. Each year, the game brings thousands of visitors to the city, providing a significant boost to local businesses, hotels, and restaurants.
Beyond the economic impact, the bowl game serves as a point of pride for Fort Worth, showcasing the city’s ability to host major sporting events and its strong support for the military community.
Looking Ahead
As the Armed Forces Bowl continues to grow in prominence, it remains committed to its core mission of honoring the U.S. military while providing an exciting college football experience. Future editions of the bowl are likely to feature:
- Continued partnerships with major conferences to ensure competitive matchups
- Enhanced fan experiences and military-themed events surrounding the game
- Ongoing support from title sponsor Lockheed Martin
- Potential expansions or improvements to Amon G. Carter Stadium to accommodate growing interest
The Armed Forces Bowl stands as a testament to the enduring connection between college football and military service in America. As it looks to the future, the bowl game is poised to remain a beloved fixture in the college football postseason, offering players, fans, and service members alike a unique and meaningful experience that goes far beyond the gridiron.
Whether you’re a die-hard college football fan, a proud member of the military community, or simply someone looking to experience the excitement of bowl season, the Armed Forces Bowl offers something truly special. It’s a celebration of athletic excellence, national service, and the unifying power of sport – a fitting tribute to the brave men and women who serve our country.
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