Montgomery, AL – Governor Kay Ivey offered strong support Wednesday morning as student veterans from The University of Alabama and Auburn University began the annual Operation Iron Ruck march, an effort aimed at raising awareness about veteran suicide.
Earlier this month, Governor Ivey welcomed student veterans from both institutions to her office for the official signing of the Operation Iron Ruck Day proclamation. The state has designated today, November 26, 2025, as Operation Iron Ruck Day in Alabama.
At sunrise, student veterans from both schools stepped off from Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, beginning the 151-mile ruck march to Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn. They are scheduled to arrive with the Iron Bowl game ball on Saturday, November 29.
“Our veterans have carried the weight of defending this nation, and Alabama will always stand firmly by their side,” Governor Ivey said. “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.”
Participants carry 22-pound rucksacks filled with donated hygiene products and food items. These supplies will be delivered to Bill Nichols State Veterans Home, Mission 22, Tuskegee Veteran’s Assisted Living Centers, and Three Hots and a Cot at the conclusion of the march.
“It says a great deal about the character of our student veterans when those from Auburn and Alabama choose unity over rivalry during Iron Bowl week to confront the issue of veteran suicide,” said Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Jeff Newton. “Their commitment to this march strengthens bonds within the veteran community and offers meaningful support to those who need it most. I’m deeply proud of both universities and every participant for their dedication to bringing attention to this critical cause.”
Alabama is home to roughly 400,000 veterans. While veterans make up about 10 percent of the state’s population, they accounted for 18 percent of suicides in Alabama in 2023. That year, 139 Alabama veterans died by suicide.
Anyone experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts is encouraged to call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988, then Press 1for immediate assistance from trained counselors.
