Student veterans from Auburn University and The University of Alabama completed a powerful show of unity and resilience this week as they wrapped up the annual 151-mile Operation Iron Ruck, a multi-day march bringing attention to the crisis of veteran suicide.
The march began last Wednesday at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa. It concluded Saturday at Jordan-Hare Stadium, where participants delivered the Iron Bowl game ball—continuing a tradition that turns rivalry week into a display of shared purpose among those who have served.
Founded in 2018, Operation Iron Ruck is organized by the Auburn Student Veterans Association and The University of Alabama Student Veterans of America.
The event has grown into a major statewide initiative involving student veterans, alumni, ROTC cadets, community partners and volunteers.
According to event organizers, its mission is two-fold: to raise awareness of the high suicide rate among veterans and to strengthen the network of support for those facing mental health struggles.
Information from the Operation Iron Ruck website explains that ruckers carry 22-pound packs symbolizing the 22 veterans per day cited as dying by suicide.
As they travel across Alabama, participants also deliver donated hygiene products and food items to veteran-serving organizations including the Bill Nichols State Veterans Home, Mission 22, Tuskegee Veteran’s Assisted Living Centers and Three Hots and a Cot.
Governor Kay Ivey formally proclaimed November 26, 2025 as Operation Iron Ruck Day in Alabama and met with student veterans earlier this month for the signing ceremony.
In her statement, Ivey said, “Our veterans have carried the weight of defending this nation, and Alabama will always stand firmly by their side. 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.”
Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Jeff Newton also praised the effort, saying the march “strengthens bonds within the veteran community and offers meaningful support to those who need it most.”
This year’s Iron Ruck drew more than 160 participants, the largest turnout to date, according to reporting from The Crimson White.
Ruckers alternated in groups as they covered the 151-mile route across the state, with most participants walking around 57 miles over the three-day journey.
Student veterans told the outlet that while the event raises awareness, it also offers something more personal: belonging, connection and a chance to support one another through hardship.
Some walkers joined the event to honor fellow service members lost to suicide.
Others said the ruck provided renewed purpose and camaraderie at a time when they needed it most.
The Iron Ruck Foundation told The Crimson White that it is exploring potential expansions to include other universities and rivalry-week matchups.
Meanwhile, state leaders continue to emphasize why efforts like this matter. According to Governor Ivey’s office, Alabama is home to approximately 400,000 veterans, who make up 10 percent of the population but represent 18 percent of suicides statewide.
The state recorded 139 veteran suicides in 2023.
With participation growing and visibility increasing each year, event leaders hope the Iron Ruck continues to inspire communities across Alabama to support veterans and help prevent future tragedies among those who have served.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
