This Memorial Day, Resistol proudly tips its hat to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. In the spirit of remembrance and respect, Resistol is honored to continually sponsor the Danny Dietz Memorial Classic, an event that pays tribute to true American heroes.

Danny Dietz was a proud Colorado native who enlisted in the U.S. Navy shortly after graduating from high school in 1991. Rising through the ranks, he earned his place among the elite as a Navy SEAL. In 2003, he married Patsy-Dietz-Shipley. Just two years later, in April 2005, he deployed to Afghanistan as part of a Special Reconnaissance team supporting Naval Special Warfare Squadron TEN in the global war on terrorism.

On June 28, 2005, during a mission known as Operation Red Wings, Danny and three fellow SEALs—Lt. Michael P. Murphy, Petty Officer Matthew G. Axelson, and Hospital Corpsman Marcus Luttrell—were ambushed while conducting surveillance on known insurgent Ahmad Shah. Three of the four SEALs were tragically killed in the firefight. A quick reaction force helicopter sent to assist them was shot down, killing all 16 personnel onboard—8 Navy SEALs and 8 U.S. Army Special Operations aviators. It marked the deadliest day for U.S. forces in Afghanistan at the time.

The story of this mission was later memorialized in the film Lone Survivor, based on Marcus Luttrell’s harrowing account as the sole survivor.

Now in its 16th year, the Danny Dietz Memorial Classic begins this Friday, May 23rd, at the NRS Arena. The event is a team roping because it is a fitting tribute to the SEALs’ unwavering reliance on teamwork. Like the Navy SEAL motto—“Two is one and one is none”—team roping demands the success of both the header and the heeler.

Over the years, the event has expanded to include the PRCA Pickett Pro Rodeo Extreme Roughstock Challenge, showcasing bull riders and bronc riders, designed to honor the adrenaline, courage and tenacity the military embody in both combat and life.

The rodeo and western community—tight-knit, patriotic and proud—rallies behind this cause, raising awareness and support for those who serve and sacrifice.

The opening evening will feature a celebration commemorating the 20th anniversary of Operation Red Wings. This night will also honor Gold Star families, those who have lost a loved one in military service, and feature appearances by Marcus Luttrell and other distinguished guests.

Captain Bradley D. Geary, a decorated Navy leader with nearly 25 years of service across the globe, will deliver the evening’s keynote. In 2020, Captain Geary received the Vice Admiral James B. Stockdale Award for Inspirational Leadership, a reflection of his enduring commitment to country and community.

Roping kicks off at 9 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday, drawing top competitors from across the country. All proceeds from the weekend benefit the Navy SEAL Danny Dietz Foundation, which provides grants to special operations personnel, first responders, surviving families and caretakers of the chronically disabled.

This Memorial Day weekend, we remember and we honor.

Join Resistol and the rodeo community in supporting a legacy built on service and sacrifice. 10% of all Resistol.com sales during the Memorial Day Weekend will go towards the Navy SEAL Danny Dietz Foundation.