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Raising awareness to prevent veteran suicide and improving mental health.

That's the mission of the group as they prepare for a dual city event in Dayton, Ohio, and right here in Â鶹´«Ã½.

"It's obviously a difficult thing to say I need help, to stand up and say that, but also maybe they don't know where to go and who to ask," explained veteran Erick Seltmann, who joined the mission when organizers branched from Ohio to the Rocket City.

"As you know, Â鶹´«Ã½, Alabama, has a lot of vets," he continued. "(And) so we want to reach out to those veterans, veteran families here in Â鶹´«Ã½."

The march not only honors veterans, but also offers resources for those who may be struggling with their mental health, and it's not just for the veterans, it's for their families, too.

"I do know other people that have been impacted and anything we can do to help them is an honor."

The ruck is 22 miles along Aldridge Creek Greenway. People will carry a 22-pound pack, marking the VA's finding for the number of veterans who die by suicide every day.

This group hopes to break the stigma and spark conversations about resources available.

"It's there, it's something we have to talk about, it's something our leaders have to talk about."

Growing the support system for our veterans and their families, one step at a time.

You don't have to ruck to participate, you can run or walk or just come for the fellowship and to learn about the local resources available.

Click for more details on the event set for Oct. 19. 

Remember if you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts help is available 24/7, just call or text 988 for help.