Rucking for Veterans Veterans Day Ruck 2026

Veterans Day Ruck is a community ruck on Veterans Day, built around walking with weight to support veterans and draw attention to veteran suicide. It originates from a South Coast nonprofit that raises money for veterans and their families, having raised more than $50,000 with over 200 participants and volunteers involved in the wider mission. The event grew out of co-founder Jason Ray’s solo 22-mile ruck, chosen to honor the 22 veterans lost each day to suicide. Rucking itself comes from military practice, so the weight people carry is both literal and symbolic: veterans, families, and civilians walk side by side, talk, and share some of the burden instead of leaving it private. The organization also works beyond the Veterans Day event by connecting veterans with resources and ongoing support.