After eight years on active duty and two years in the Naval Reserve, my service is coming to an end. Before I take the uniform off for good, I want to honor those who never made it home.
I served on USS O’Kane, at the Naval Undersea Medical Institute, at The Basic School in Quantico, and drilled out of Naval Reserve Center New York City. Every command gave me people who changed my life. Some are still here. Some aren’t. Their names stay with me.
If you asked me whether I’d enlist again, I would do it without hesitation. Service gave me purpose, discipline, and a community that stands together in every circumstance. It also showed me the weight families carry while their loved ones serve and the courage required to stand in harm’s way.
As my final act in uniform, I’m carrying their weight. I’m rucking in their honor. I’m carrying their names. I’m doing this so their sacrifice stays visible, not forgotten.
Please support this effort. Your donation helps the families of fallen service members and first responders. It provides real assistance and reminds them that this country stands with them. Patriots take care of our own, and your support proves it.
I AM TOUGH RUCKING FOR AMERICA'S FALLEN MILITARY & FIRST RESPONDERS
This April, I will be joining Tough Ruck Nation to complete a marathon with a weighted rucksack (backpack). Tough Ruck 26.2 Boston is an elite group of 1000 who ruck to HONOR AMERICA'S FALLEN MILITARY & FIRST RESPONDERS. We humbly carry the names of the Fallen on our rucks as they will NEVER BEEN FORGOTTEN. We will also be raising critical funds for our Warriors. This is where we need your help! The basic ideal that drives our efforts is simple: as much as our Warriors have sacrificed, they and their families deserve the best care and support available in their hour of need. Your tax deductible donation literally provides a lifeline to a Warrior.
On April 15, 2013, Tough Ruckers were at the finish line of the Boston Marathon and joined the first responders to help those that were injured by the horrific blasts. They truly exemplify the best of what our Nation is. Today the Tough Ruck takes place the weekend before Boston Marathon Monday. Tough Ruck is the only ruck march partnered with the Boston Marathon and finishers are awarded the official Boston Marathon Medals and receive recognition from the Boston Athletic Association. Military Friends Foundation is the official charity of Tough Ruck Nation.
