ROTC cadets to honor veterans Nov. 9 with Ruck March fundraiser

Members of the community are being invited to join more than 200 cadets from eight universities who will gather at Modesto A. Maidique Campus Saturday, Nov. 9, to conduct a Ruck March in honor of veterans.

The five-mile test of endurance involves cadets walking at a fast pace while carrying their weapons and “rucks” – large backpacks of gear that weigh approximately 45 lbs. Participating cadets hail from FIU, FAU, University of Miami, Miami-Dade College, Broward College, Barry University, Florida Memorial University, Palm Beach Atlantic University and Palm Beach State College.

The event runs from 8 a.m. to noon, and the march is expected to get underway at 9 a.m. at the FIU ROTC headquarters, near the Children’s Creative Learning Center.

“Those who are about to serve honoring those who have served,” says U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Sonny Vo, a professor of military science and leader of the FIU Army ROTC program. “That’s what this is about.”

Participants have been collecting pledges based upon how many miles they complete and proceeds from the fundraiser will support veterans and the upcoming Cadets Spring Military Ball.

The typically small event grew into a much larger one thanks to the efforts of the cadets, who, according to Vo, “really took this on.” Local vendors who will have tents at the event include Target, Muscle Milk, McDonalds, Monster Energy Drinks, Wells Fargo, USAA and NASCAR, which is bringing car #88. Local first responders have been invited as well.

Those wishing to write a check in support of the efforts are being asked to make it out to the Golden Panther Battalion Cadet Fund and mail it to: Army ROTC, Department of Military Science, 11200 S.W. 8th Street, Bldg. W10A, Miami, FL 33199.