In 2005, the Ben Franklin Global Forum began a tradition that continues to this day. On the eve of the Army-Navy Football Classic, it has hosted, managed, and/or sponsored a dinner event to honor the men and women of our nation’s military.

This year, the event, now called the Army-Navy Football Classic Gala and Gold Star Weekend, begins on Thursday, December 11, 2025, and runs through Sunday, December 14th.

Keynote speakers are senior military or Department of Defense leaders who join with members of the Active Duty, Reserve, National Guard, as well as veterans, civilian leaders, and their guests to celebrate what is this year the 123rd gridiron meeting between the Cadets of the Army and the Midshipmen of the Navy.

For the last twelve years, the focus has been on celebrating the warriors of U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM). And what was once a dinner on Friday night has morphed into a 4-day/3-night weekend celebration that now incorporates hosting and honoring SOCOM’s Gold Star Wives and family members.

Working in partnership with organizations representing the U.S. Army Special Operations Command and Naval Special Warfare Command, the Forum designs, plans, and executes a series of events from Thursday to Sunday to honor the service of the men and women from U.S. Special Operations Command and to support the families of our nation’s fallen warriors.

View the attached photo galleries for an inside look at what’s in store for you.