South Santa Rosa News file photo
The 5th Annual End of Watch Memorial Ruck will take place September 30 – October 2 at the Santa Rosa County Fairgrounds in East Milton.
Teams of athletes will set out to ruck for a continuous 42-hours in honor of 633 law enforcement officers who fell in the line of duty during 2021.
Caleb Cook, founder of the event, said this year the format is set up to honor the 10-42 radio code officers use to sign off at the end of a shift, so it will last 42 hours.
During the event, the participants will carry a one pound weight that bears the name of an officer who died in the line of duty in 2021.
“Every day, men and women in law enforcement across this country leave their homes and families to answer the call of service to a greater mission.” said Cook. “Tragically, this call to service can require a heavy sacrifice. This sacrifice is not only made up by the dangers that come with violent situations, but also the cumulative stress from the burden of the badge.”
Cook said the End of Watch Memorial Ruck is designed to “reverently honor the fallen and support those still on watch, while also building a stronger community between law enforcement and civilians through education and awareness.”
The End of Watch Memorial Ruck (#EOWMR) is in its fifth year and is organized by the End of Watch Foundation (EOWF). Funds raised by the event will go to support the mission of the End of Watch Foundation. To learn more about the EOWF Mission go to eowf.org/mission
This year athletes will follow a closed, outdoor course at the Santa Rosa County Fairgrounds.
Athletes (rockers), volunteers, and sponsors interested in the event are encouraged to visit www.EOWF.org for more information.
