MONTGOMERY: Governor Kay Ivey recently welcomed student veterans from Auburn University and the University of Alabama to the State Capitol to sign a proclamation naming November 26, 2025, as Operation Iron Ruck Day in Alabama.
“Our veterans have carried the weight of defending this nation, and Alabama will always stand by their side,” Ivey said. “By putting rivalry aside and marching for a greater cause, these student veterans show the very best of who we are.”
Operation Iron Ruck unites student veterans from both schools during Iron Bowl week as they march with 22-pound rucks filled with donated food and hygiene essentials. Those items will be delivered to veteran support groups including Bill Nichols State Veterans Home, Mission 22, Tuskegee Veterans Assisted Living Centers, and Three Hots and a Cot.
Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Jeff Newton said the effort highlights the strong character of the veterans involved and brings needed attention to suicide prevention.
More than 400,000 veterans live in Alabama. Although they make up about 10% of the population, veterans account for 18% of suicide deaths in the state. In 2023, Alabama recorded 139 veteran suicides.
Veterans experiencing emotional distress can call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988, then press 1 for immediate help.
