OPERATION IRON RUCK
Operation Iron Ruck (OIR) is an annual event hosted by the Auburn Student Veterans Association (ASVA) and the University of Alabama Student Veterans of America (SVA) to raise awareness and funds for veteran suicide prevention. As the state of Alabama has one of the nation’s highest veteran suicide rates, OIR seeks to increase the public’s knowledge on this issue while uniting veterans with the community, funding charities, championing veteran suicide education and supporting local veteran organizations.
The Veteran Population is Battling The Epidemic That Is Veteran Suicide.
WHAT TO EXPECT
- Veteran Resource Fair
Engage directly with organizations providing services in mental health, career transition, wellness, and family support - Peer Engagement
Connect with fellow veterans and participants who understand the journey - Education & Awareness
Learn about available resources, warning signs, and ways to support others - Community Connection
Families, supporters, and local communities come together in support of those who served
Why it works
Ruck & Ride integrates movement, nature, and peer support to create an environment where individuals feel:
- Less isolated
- More connected
- More open to conversation and support
These shared experiences often lead to meaningful conversations and lasting impact.
2026
Fundraising Goal
$75,000
In the days preceding the Iron Bowl, student veterans from The University of Alabama Student Veterans of America and Auburn Student Veterans Association will lay the Iron Bowl rivalry aside and together ruck the Iron Bowl game ball from the visiting team’s stadium to the home team’s stadium.
Who Can Participate in Operation Iron Ruck?
We encourage anyone to walk the 151-mile awareness campaign alongside us, however, because we have limited van space and supplies, we give priority to student veterans/veterans. To learn more about participating in this year’s OIR, please complete the form at the bottom of this page or join our practice rucks.
Volunteer Opportunities
If you would like to be involved in this year’s Operation Iron Ruck as a volunteer, please review the below volunteer opportunities. We rely on volunteers to make Operation Iron Ruck possible.
Participant and Volunteer Sign-Up
Watch the Operation Iron Ruck Video That Appeared On ESPN.
COUNTDOWN TO OPERATION IRON RUCK
University of Alabama Student Veterans of America
At the University of Alabama, the Student Veterans of America will provide a support network for veterans, dependents and survivors; a social experience that builds on the bonds forged during service; and a voice that advocates for the military community.
Auburn University Student Veterans Association
Established in 2009 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Auburn Student Veterans Association (ASVA) serves as a beacon for military veterans transitioning into academic life at Auburn University. Drawing strength from the principles of military culture, ASVA’s main mission is to bridge the gap between military service and the pursuit of higher education.
ASVA was born out of a distinct “why” – to serve as the nexus for military veterans as they navigate their new life at Auburn University. The essence of our existence revolves around two main points: fostering academic achievement and promoting integration into the Auburn community.
Operation Iron Ruck
Student Veterans
of America
cva.ualabama@gmail.com
205-233-1890
