Montgomery, AL – On Monday, November 25, 2024, Governor Kay Ivey participated in the Operation Iron Ruck News Conference at the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery, underscoring the state’s commitment to raising awareness and funds for veteran suicide prevention. During the event, Governor Ivey proclaimed Wednesday, November 27, 2024, as Operation Iron Ruck Day in Alabama, shining a spotlight on this annual initiative led by student veterans.
Operation Iron Ruck, founded in 2018 by student veterans from The University of Alabama (UA) and Auburn University (AU), is a 151-mile march from the away team’s stadium to the home team’s stadium, coinciding with the historic Iron Bowl rivalry. Participants include student veterans, veteran alumni, and ROTC members who carry 22 pounds of donated materials in their rucksacks—a solemn reminder of the 22 veterans estimated to die by suicide each day.
Speaking at the event, Governor Ivey emphasized the importance of supporting Alabama’s veterans and addressing the critical issue of veteran suicide. “Operation Iron Ruck embodies the resilience and camaraderie of our veteran community while drawing much-needed attention to a heartbreaking crisis. Alabama stands united in honoring those who have served and in working toward meaningful solutions,” she said.
The conference featured remarks from Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Interim Commissioner Jeff Newton and Auburn Student Veterans Association Event Coordinator Bill Schwenk, both of whom highlighted the impact of the event and the importance of community involvement.
The ruck march serves dual purposes: honoring the sacrifices of veterans and providing tangible support through donations. The materials carried by participants are later distributed to homeless veterans, furthering the event’s mission of fostering hope and solidarity within the veteran community.
This year’s ruck began at Auburn University, with participants set to deliver the game ball and donations to Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa ahead of the Iron Bowl. Along the journey, participants reflect on the struggles faced by their fellow veterans, fostering a spirit of remembrance and unity.
Governor Ivey’s proclamation solidifies Alabama’s dedication to veterans’ mental health and well-being, encouraging residents to support efforts like Operation Iron Ruck and promote greater awareness of the challenges veterans face.
As the ruck progresses toward its destination, the initiative continues to inspire conversations about the need for proactive measures to combat veteran suicide and ensure no veteran feels left behind.
