Oklahoma's annual tradition of honoring its veterans continues this May, as Broken Arrow gears up for the third Oklahoma Memorial Trail Ruck-Off. As reported by the Oklahoma House, the event invites citizens to participate in a military-style march carrying weighted backpacks—also known as "rucks"—to raise awareness for veteran issues and bolster military recruitment efforts. The event will pay tribute to U.S. Army Infantry Major Clarence Oliver, a Korean War combat veteran and a resident of the city.
The march sets off bright and early at 7 a.m. from Veterans Park, located at 1111 S Main St., with the option for participants to embark on either a four-mile or a challenging twelve-mile journey. To make it clear how committed they are to the cause, some will carry a ruck weighing 35 pounds. The Oklahoma House relays that the Public Safety Caucus chair, Ross Ford, R-Broken Arrow, hopes to see a strong turnout. "Our veterans have done so much to preserver our freedoms and keep our citizens safe. It will be an honor to recognize their efforts in this way," Ford expressed.
In preparation for the physical exertion, Broken Arrow VFW Post 10887 adds a culinary start to the affair with a pancake breakfast from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m., allowing participants and supporters alike to fuel up. Conveniently behind the Veterans Center at 1117 S Main St., where the breakfast is calling everyone to come and go, the closing ceremony will commence at noon to wrap up the event.
Support and organization for the Ruck-Off is a team effort, with acknowledgment given by Ford to the City of Broken Arrow, the Veterans & Public Safety Caucus, the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, and Soldiers Wish for their collaboration. For those interested in attending or cheering on the marchers, more details can be found in the official announcement.
