A 'Ruck' will bring marchers, soldiers through Forest Grove Saturday

A Saturday, May 3 event starting at the Forest Grove National Guard Armory will bring "ruckers" through Forest Grove to raise funds and food donations.

"The goal of the event is to integrate the Guard more within the community and collect canned food donations for the St. Vincent Food Bank," organizers said in an email to News in the Grove. In addition to community members, local Oregon National Guard soldiers will march in remembrance of fallen soldiers.

Find out more information online.

Registration for the 2-218 Field Artillery Regimental Association Remembrance Ruck and Food Drive will begin at 7 a.m. at the Forest Grove Armory (2950 Taylor Way).

(Disclosure: This journalist's brother-in-law is an active duty soldier in the 2-218 Field Artillery Regiment, Oregon Army National Guard)

An open house at the armory will feature howitzers and military vehicles used by field artillery soldiers.

At 9 a.m., those participating will begin a five mile "ruck march" from the armory in a five mile loop along Maple Street, Pacific Avenue, B Street, the B Street Trail, and Highway 47.

An 11 a.m. award ceremony will award ruckers, including prizes from local businesses for those who walked with the heaviest packs and those who finished the route in the fastest time.