Local gym raises awareness of veteran suicide

Every day, 22 veterans take their own lives. That's 22 too many. At least that's what a local gym thinks, so they are doing something about it. On Saturday, October 1st, Westex Fitness is holding their 3rd annual 22-mile ruck to raise awareness of veteran suicide.

“We've done this for the past couple of years, and it's one of the most physically painful things I've ever done. But I think about the pain they've endured in their service and beyond, and it pales in comparison. We just hope that this small gesture can show support for them and their families.” A member of the gym, Ben Herron, chimes in, “When I found out they did this every year, I was touched. As a veteran, I've lost more friends to suicide than to combat. I think it will help veterans to know people care.”

But what is a 22-mile ruck? It's a 22mile walk similar to what service members do while they are serving. In combat, it is common for service members to have to walk long distances while carrying their gear. This event seeks to emulate this endeavor to some extent.

Even though it is likely to be difficult and painful, a large group is expected for the seven-to-nine-hour event. Some will be wearing “boots and utes,” combat boots and a camouflage uniform, and carrying a “ruck,” or military backpack. Others will be wearing shorts and running shoes and pushing strollers. Flags are expected to be a common item and spirits will be high. No matter how they are dressed, all will have veterans on their minds.

“Big Spring is one of the most supportive communities for veterans that I have ever lived in,” said Herron. “I hope they come out to support this.” That said, there are many ways to support this event.

First, the public is invited to participate in the ruck itself. The event starts at Westex Fitness located at 1011 E. 11th Place, Big Spring, Texas at 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 1st.

Another way to support it is to volunteer at one of the aid stations. The 22mile course meanders through most of the city of Big Spring with three aid stations planned. The first will be located at the state park entrance at the 5-mile mark. It plans to operate from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. The second will be located at Hillside at the 11-mile mark, which will run from 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. The final aid station will be located at the VFW on Driver and will be manned from 8:15 to 9:45 p.m. Volunteers are needed to man the aid stations and to donate snacks, drinks, and first aid.

Another way to show your support is to honk and wave if you see them walking through town. The best way to show support, however, is to reach out to a veteran, or several, simply to say, “We've got your six.”