HARLINGEN — Over a 22-hour period, men and women who have served along with civilians will march more than 30 miles in town.
The 2nd Annual 22 Hour March in March event was created to raise funds and awareness about the struggles veterans go through when they come back home.
According to a study conducted by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, 22 veterans will commit suicide every day.
The event is being hosted by the Roadrunner Ruckers of South Texas, a nonprofit organization that promotes health and wellness among veterans and civilians.
Participants in the march will walk 38 miles over the 22-hour period with 15 stops or checkpoints in between.
Some in attendance have committed to carrying a 22-pound ruck sack to represent the 22 lives lost a day and the burden soldiers carry with them when they come back from the war.
Veterans and civilians taking part in the march are encouraged to bring flags with them such as the U.S. flag or a flag that is representative of the military branch they have served in.
All proceeds from the event will go toward Stop Soldier Suicide, an organization dedicated to assisting veterans who are in need of mental health services or therapy.
People can register online through the group’s Facebook page for the event or onsite on the day of the event.
If You Go
WHAT: 2nd Annual 22 Hour March in March
WHEN: Saturday, March 24, 7 a.m.
WHERE: Marine Military Academy, 320 Iwo Jima Blvd., Harlingen
COST: $22 for civilians, $12 for veterans and emergency services personnel, free for first checkpoint march
To register visit the Roadrunner Ruckers of South Texas on Facebook
What is Stop
Soldier Suicide?
The group is dedicated to helping veterans transition to civilian life by providing support in various ways.
To get help or learn more go to stopsoldiersuicide.org or call (844) 889- 5610
