Operation Iron Ruck Highlights A Cause Over Rivalry
There are few things Alabama and Auburn can agree on but one of the most important, is the common ground for the annual "Operation Iron Ruck". This morning, student veterans and ROTC from both schools began their 8th annual ruck march. This year from Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa to Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn. They will arrive with the Iron Bowl game ball for Saturday night's rivalry game.
The University of Alabama Student Veterans of America (SVA) and Auburn Student Veterans Association (ASVA) march the 151 miles between the two universities each year to call attention to issues impacting veterans. Their number one mission goal is to educate the public about veteran suicide. Alabama leads the nation in veteran suicide rate.
The student vets and other participants are carrying 22-pound ruck sacks containing donated items that the students will deliver to Bill Nichols State Veterans Home, Mission 22, Tuskegee Veteran’s Assisted Living Centers. The items include hygiene products and an assortment of food items.
Operation Iron Ruck also has a fund-raising goal of $75,000 for this year's march.
“Our veterans have carried the weight of defending this nation, and Alabama will always stand firmly by their side,” Governor Ivey said when the two groups visited her office at the capital earlier this month for her to issue a proclamation. “As the ruck takes off, our student veterans are once again proving what sets Alabama apart – putting rivalry aside and walking for a cause bigger than themselves. Their devotion to their fellow servicemembers reflects the very best of who we are. I’m proud to stand with them and proud to support Operation Iron Ruck.”
People who see the march in person are encouraged to talk with the student veterans, walk with them and join in raising awareness of the rising suicide epidemic among the veteran population.
Alabama Student Vets + Auburn Students Vets = Equal a Common Cause.
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