‘Stand strong’

Patriot Day Ruck Walk to commemorate all heroes

For the past several years, Frank Williams and Joshua Jennings have organized an annual 9/11 march from Warren to Starbrick to honor first responders for their bravery and service.

While the duo has participated in numerous holiday rucks, this 9/11 tribute stands as their longest journey. A “ruck” -- a fitness practice rooted in military training -- involves walking long distances while carrying a backpack tightly packed with weighted gear.

Originally from New Jersey, Williams moved here in 2018 after coming home from a deployment, and has been doing rucks for at least the past three years. Saying that he was just 14 years old when 9/11 occurred, it did play a role in his decision to join the military but moreover it was a sense of honor, duty and reverence. After losing a friend, killed in action by an improvised explosive device in 2005, Williams shared that it's one reason why he does what he can here to honor his fellow veterans and our emergency service members.

Commenting on the 25th anniversary since that dreadful day, Williams said, "We still stand strong. We still hold our heads high. And even now, with heavy hearts, we remember. Today is the day to thank our emergency service members for what they do, for they, like us, bear the weight of the heroes who came before. We march in their honor. We will never forget.”

The ruck serves as both a celebration of service and a tribute to those who have sacrificed. It is a way for the community to show appreciation, raise awareness, and support the well-being of veterans.

Often unsure as to how many others will participate, Williams said, "Even if there aren’t any others, I’ll still do the event solo. It's been a passion project of mine since it started a few years ago."

The event itself is open to not only veterans but to everyone. Some walk to just support the venture.

According to Williams, during the walks, he and his fellow veterans will set a minimum weight required for their rucks and walk the distance with it. "For this event, there is no requirement. It’s optional, and encouraged. Oftentimes, along with our weighted ruck, some of us will wear plate carriers to add extra weight."

A lot of people aren’t used to carrying heavy loads for long distances, or are building up to it.

"The way I determine weight requirement is for the purpose of the ruck. Using Memorial Day as an example, we ruck in remembrance of those who are no longer with us. We now carry the weight of their legacy and continue to march on."

Williams created the Warren County Ruck in Honor Facebook page where future walks and updates can be found.

Meeting at the YMCA at noon, the tentative route will travel down Pennsylvania Avenue West toward Hickory Street, then to the Fire Department and back to Pennsylvania Avenue West toward Route 6, with a stop at the Warren County Memorial Park before heading to the Starbrick Fire Department.

Williams said, "If you see us throughout town or marching on Route 6, stop and say hello, or honk and wave to show your support as we march in respect for our heroes."