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Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] has agreed to extend its title sponsorship of the Fort Worth-based Armed Forces Bowl for another six years, officials said on Thursday, the eve of the 22nd edition of the bowl game.
The defense contractor, which has been the title sponsor since the 2014 game, will be on board through at least 2031.
“We are ecstatic to announce that Lockheed Martin will continue to serve as our title sponsor for six more years,” said Brant Ringler, executive director of the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl. “Lockheed Martin’s commitment to our game, the city of Fort Worth, and our nation's armed forces is second to none.
“Their leadership and dedication have allowed us to elevate the event to greater national prominence each year. We look forward to continuing to work with Lockheed Martin to honor our armed forces members through a fantastic football event.”
This year’s game between Oklahoma (6-6) and Navy (9-3) is set for 11 a.m. Friday at TCU’s Amon G. Carter Stadium. It is sold out. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.
Lockheed Martin has more than 18,000 employees in North Texas, primarily at its Aeronautics business headquarters in Fort Worth and its Missiles and Fire Control business headquarters in Grand Prairie.
“Our continued sponsorship of the Armed Forces Bowl reflects our deep gratitude for the brave men and women who serve our country,” said Greg Ulmer, president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. “We look forward to continuing to bring fans together to celebrate our military heroes, college football, and the American spirit at the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl.”
The Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl, the “Bowl for the Brave,” is played in honor of the Armed Forces of the United States. It was the first collegiate football bowl game to host all three U.S. Military Academy football teams.
The 2024 game marks the 14th time in the past 18 years that the game has featured an academy team. Air Force has participated in seven games, most recently last year. Army has played in four, and Navy appearance this year marks its third game.