VFW POST 7591

VFW Post 7591

Operation Ruck 22 Update 2020

by · Published · Updated

Operation Ruck 22 of Wisconsin is based in Madison, Wisconsin and is comprised of VFW Post and Auxiliary members from the three Madison VFW Posts, along with other dedicated volunteers. 

On average, 22 Veterans commit suicide each day. One Veteran suicide is too many. Operation Ruck 22 is a symbolic 22 mile march that raises awareness of Veteran suicide. While we march, we carry 22 pounds in our rucksack to remember those we’ve lost.

Our mission is to end this tragedy by creating public and Veteran awareness and by providing support for those at risk so that they can get the help they desperately need. For the safety of all marchers, this year’s 5th annual Operation Ruck 22 march will be held virtually during the entire month of September. Marchers can break up the 22 miles over the 30 days however it fits best into their schedule: 1 mile a day for 22 days, 22 miles in 1 day, or any combination in between.

As in prior years, proceeds from the march, t-shirt sales, and donations will be donated to four deserving local organizations that are helping Veterans in need. This year, we are raising money for:

• Back to Basic Training
• Cover Me Veterans
• Veterans on the Fly
• Connected Warriors

To celebrate the 5th year of Operation Ruck 22, special challenge coins will be available for purchase this year. Additionally, the t-shirts have a new logo and will be available in gray and pink, and short and long sleeves and buffs with the Operation Ruck 22 logo are available. When you sign up for the virtual 22 mile march, you will be signed up to receive one short sleeved t-shirt.

Those who would like to purchase more shirts or are unable to participate in the 22 mile march will be able to purchase their t-shirts and challenge coins online. As always, donations are greatly appreciated.

For more information about Ruck 22, the local organizations we are sponsoring this year and to sign up, please visit our new website http://www.operationruck22.com/ and our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/MadisonOperationRuck22/