Tough Ruck March in Concord Honors Fallen Military Heroes

The Military Friends Foundation, a nonprofit that supports Massachusetts military families and families of the fallen service members, today announced the 2019 Tough Ruck will take place on Sunday, April 14, 2019 at the Old Manse, 269 Monument Street, Concord, Mass. Military and civilians will participate in the seven annual Tough Ruck, marching in honor of fallen military and first responders, while raising funds to support local military families in times of need. Military Friends Foundation proudly presents this event in partnership with the Boston Athletic Association.

“Less than one percent of our population is currently serving in the Armed Forces. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are the longest wars in American history and we have never asked more from our military families,” said Sarah Sweeney, Executive Director, Military Friends Foundation. “Military Friends Foundation’s goal is to make a direct impact locally in support of Massachusetts citizens who serve and their families.”

Tough Ruckers walk a 26.2-mile course that begins and ends at The Old Manse in Concord, carrying weighted rucks that also hold the names of fallen comrades. Participants carry rucksacks weighing as much as 35 pounds on their backs, and must commit to raising a minimum of $450. The Ruckers step off at 7:20 a.m. and are cheered by families of fallen service members, first responders, and military leaders.

“We at the Boston Athletic Association are honored to support the inspiring efforts of the Military Friends Foundation,” said Thomas S. Grilk, Executive Director, B.A.A. “Tough Ruck participants marching in support of military families do a great deed for our servicemembers and we are honored to help facilitate the veteran and veteran support groups in this meaningful program.”

Recognized as a kind of shadow Boston Marathon for military personnel, first responders, and their civilian supporters, Tough Ruckers will receive the first of the official 2019 Boston Marathon medals. In 2013, Tough Ruckers had just completed the Boston Marathon route when the bombings occurred and they sprang to aid the injured. Tough Ruck now takes place in Concord on the original trails of the Revolutionary War.

For more information about the 2019 Tough Ruck visit https://www.toughruck.org/.