Get ready to strap on your backpacks and lace up your walking shoes because Royal Oak is about to host its annual Ruck 22 March on Saturday, November 9. This isn’t your average stroll in the park – it’s a mission with a purpose and happening right in the heart of Royal Oak, Michigan.
What’s a Ruck March, Anyway?
For those of you scratching your heads wondering what a “ruck march” is, picture this: it’s like a brisk walk, but with a twist. Participants carry weighted backpacks, channeling their inner soldiers. They’d be lugging around 45 pounds plus all their gear in the military. But don’t worry, we’re not trying to turn you into G.I. Joe here.
The Royal Oak Veterans Events Committee (RO VEC) asks folks to carry 22 pounds or 22 food or personal items for this event. Why 22, you ask? It’s a sobering number – on average, 22 veterans in the United States take their own lives every single day. By carrying this weight, we support veterans in crisis and their families. It’s a small gesture that carries a lot of meaning.
The Details
Mark your calendars for November 9, 2024. The march starts at 10 a.m. sharp at Centennial Commons, located at the corner of Third and Troy Streets in Royal Oak. You’ll cover a 2.2-mile course—see what they did there with the 22 themes.
Here’s the kicker: the registration fees have been waived this year. That’s right, it’s free to participate! But don’t let that stop you from being generous. The RO VEC encourages everyone to bring non-perishable food or personal items for veterans in need. All the goodies you bring will go to the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 food pantry.
If you’re more of a cash donor, no worries. The committee will also be collecting monetary donations, with all proceeds going to support mental health services at the John Dingell VA.
What to Bring?
Wondering what to stuff in your backpack? Think Thanksgiving dinner. The wish list includes stuffing mixes, cranberries, canned veggies, instant mashed potatoes, gravy mixes, and family-size boxes of mac and cheese. They’re also accepting grocery store gift cards to help with perishable items. But it’s not just about the turkey and trimmings.
Other much-needed items include gently used clothing, bedding, books, toys, hygiene products, baby essentials, and even entertainment items like puzzles or playing cards. If you think it might be useful, chances are it is.
More Than Just a Walk in the Park
This event isn’t just about getting your steps in (though your fitness tracker will thank you). It’s about community, support, and raising awareness. It’s a chance to show our veterans that we’ve got their backs, quite literally, by carrying weight on ours. Dave Wandoff, the go-to guy for this event, is even offering sponsorship opportunities. The top four sponsors will get their names on signs at each leg of the event. It’s like the Hollywood Walk of Fame but with a much nobler cause.
Why Should You Care?
Look, we get it. On a chilly November morning, lugging around a heavy backpack might not sound like fun. But here’s the thing—this event is bigger than any of us. It’s about coming together as a community to support those who’ve served our country.
Plus, let’s be honest, it’s a great excuse to dust off that backpack that’s been sitting in your closet since your last camping trip (which, let’s face it, was probably longer ago than you’d like to admit).
The Bottom Line
So, Royal Oak residents and neighbors, are you ready to ruck and roll? This is your chance to break a sweat, do some good, and maybe even work off that Halloween candy you’ve been munching on. Remember, registration is free, but they’d like you to sign up for planning purposes. You can find all the details and register on the Royal Oak City website.
Your participation matters whether you’re a seasoned rucker or a first-timer, whether you can carry 22 pounds or just a couple of cans. It’s not about how much you can carry, but the fact that you’re there, showing up for our veterans.
So come on, Royal Oak. Let’s ruck this town and show our veterans that we’re always ready to shoulder the weight of supporting them.
Sources: romi.gov, fox2detroit.com
Header Image Source: Photo by Taylor Flowe on Unsplash
