Rucking for a Cause: Raising Veteran Suicide Awareness

Sunday’s Little Rock Marathon featured groups from all over the country. One of the most memorable was that of the nine member Student Veterans of America (SMVA) from Russellville rucking the 10k and completing it with at time of 1:41:06.

These students marched in unison while carrying 45 lb. rucksacks. The group also carried a dummy litter throughout the entire 10k course with banners draped reading, “Veterans don’t just die on the battlefield,” and American flags. The group hoped that their march would raise awareness for Veteran suicide.

Headquartered at Arkansas Tech University, “this group has the overarching goal of providing military service members, veterans and individuals associated with Armed Forces the resources, support and advocacy with a social environment to promote success and stability needed for family, education and employment,” said Aaron Scruggs, SMVA president.

The group offers peer advising through a Veterans Affairs (VA), Student Veteran Partnership and are part of the VA clergy. Deeply supported by their community, the student group has several members active in the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars chapters in the Russellville area.