National Anthem Singer Steven Powell Shares What Pat’s Run Means to Him

Steven Powell has performed the National Anthem on some of the biggest stages in the world, but Pat’s Run holds a special place in his heart. Nearly two decades ago, the retired U.S. Navy petty officer sang at the sixth Pat’s Run in 2010, and this year, he returned to Tempe to perform once again — kicking off the 21st Annual Pat’s Run in a powerful full circle moment.

“It was truly an honor for me,” Powell said, adding that he has enjoyed watching the event evolve over the years. “It’s become more impactful, and more people now understand what Pat’s Run is all about.”

Pat’s Run is meaningful to Powell for another reason as well: he was working at the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) in Phoenix when Pat Tillman came through to enlist. It’s a moment that’s stayed with him over the years, and one that makes being part of the race all the more special. 

“That was a highlight for me and for all of MEPs,” he recalled. “An NFL player coming in to change his career —  moving from one major chapter of his life to the next … I got to see that happen.”

Like Pat, Powell also felt a strong calling to serve. The youngest of six children, he was raised in a family with deep military roots and always knew that service was in his future. While playing football at the University of Kansas, he made the decision to enlist in the U.S. Navy. 

“One of my friends wanted a ride to go see the Navy recruiter and next thing you know, he and I went in on the buddy system,” he said. “I literally left college, joined the Navy, and never looked back.”

He went on to explain how joining the military changed his life, noting: “My family and I came from very humble beginnings. We didn’t really have a lot. The military allowed me to see the world and make lifelong friends .. It gave me a career, a sense of purpose, and experiences I never imagined I would have.” 

While serving, Powell stumbled upon a second career: performing the National Anthem at military ceremonies and sporting events. He had grown up singing in church, and music had always been a part of his life, but it wasn’t until a friend encouraged him to attend a Phoenix Suns audition for the National Anthem that his career as a singer took off. 

After booking gigs throughout the Valley, performing for the Suns, the Arizona Diamondbacks, and the Arizona Cardinals, Powell’s singing career expanded beyond Arizona — eventually taking him to stages across the country and around the world.

“It morphed into something I could have ever imagined,” he said. 

Of the venues he’s performed at, Powell counts singing at Normandy Beach in June 2024 in honor of the 80th anniversary of D-Day as one of his all-time favorites. “I have no words for that,” he reflected. “I get chills every time I think about it.”

He added that both of his experiences at Pat’s Run were also stand-out moments, particularly because they allowed him to honor Pat’s legacy. 

“Serving is a special calling. It’s not for everyone, but a few choose to do it,” he said. “Pat was one of those people who wanted something bigger. He was someone who said, ‘You know what? I am going to put my life on hold to go serve others and do more for other people.’” 

“I’ve always respected Pat for that because I truly understand it,” Powell concluded.

To learn more about how the Pat Tillman Foundation is carrying on Pat’s legacy and how to get involved, check out our mission statement.