‘Pull the Tank’ to support veterans set for June 15

United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region announced the return of its Pull the Tank event at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 15. The event aims to raise funds to support Mission United, a program dedicated to assisting veterans and military families in the community.

”We’re excited to bring back Pull the Tank and show our unwavering support for our local veterans and military families,” said President and CEO of United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region Jeannie Montano. “This fun and engaging event allows our community to come together and raise crucial funds for Mission United. Every dollar raised will help veterans access vital services, including housing assistance, legal support, mental health treatment and basic necessities.”

Pull the Tank participants will work together in teams of 20 to pull a World War II Combat Sherman Tank on a flatbed – weighing 120,000 pounds – across a 50-foot runway in the fastest time possible. The event will be held at the Orange County Airport in Montgomery and is open to anyone 13 years of age or older (parental permission is required for participants under 18). Pre-registration is required.

Last year’s inaugural event saw over 200 participants compete across 13 teams. The crowd enjoyed warm-up exercises, a designated children’s area with games and face painting, and competition on the tarmac. The winning team pulled the tank in 17.87 seconds.

Individuals and teams can register for Pull the Tank today. Teams are encouraged to fundraise and compete for prizes based on their combined fundraising and pulling power. All participants who raise $200 or more will receive a commemorative 2024 Pull the Tank T-shirt, a goody bag, lunch, and the chance to win prizes for the “Ultimate Tug of War” victory. Attendees can also enjoy sponsor booths, a DJ, raffles, and yard games.

For more information and to register for Pull the Tank, visit uwdor.org/pullthetank.

Sponsors include Acorn Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling; Bob’s Discount Furniture; Kevin Cleary; Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation; Bill and Candy Davies; EC Media Group; Galleria at Crystal Run; IBM; iHeart Radio; Hotaling Property and Casualty LLC; Hudson River Truck and Trailer; Key Bank; Town of Montgomery Ambulance; M&T Bank; Pamal Broadcasting; RBT CPAs, LLP; Pratt & Whitney Advanced Coating Technologies; Resorts World; TD Bank, Ulster Savings Bank; Wall Radio and WGHT.