On Friday, December 20th, the Connecticut National Guard (CTNG) hosted its Annual Holiday Ruck March, a tradition that highlights physical endurance, camaraderie, and the spirit of giving back. This cherished event, featuring a 6.65-mile course over challenging terrain, brought together service members from various military branches. Among the participants was the Second Company Governor’s Foot Guard, a distinguished unit of the Connecticut Governor’s Guards (State Defense Force), whose presence underscored their enduring partnership with the CTNG. Carrying weighted rucksacks, participants exemplified resilience and teamwork.
Participants also demonstrated the true spirit of the holiday season by bringing food donations, which were generously contributed to the Connecticut Food Bank. This effort not only showcased their commitment to serving the community but also provided essential support to families in need during a time of giving and gratitude.
The march also benefited from the enthusiastic support of the Meriden Lions Club, which provided participants with hot coffee, Danishes, and egg sandwiches—essential sustenance for the grueling journey. The Second Company Governor’s Foot Guard, alongside their CTNG counterparts, demonstrated their shared commitment to service and community impact. Their participation reflects the unity and pride shared by the Connecticut military community, making this year’s event particularly meaningful.
This annual event highlights the strong partnership between the Connecticut National Guard and the Governor’s Guards, exemplifying their mutual dedication to supporting both state and community. Events like these not only strengthen the bonds between the two organizations but also reinforce their shared mission of service and resilience. Together, they continue to build a legacy of collaboration and community impact that inspires those they serve.
On Friday, Dec. 20th, the Connecticut National Guard (CTNG) proudly hosted the Annual Holiday Ruck March, a cherished tradition that combines physical endurance, camaraderie, and the spirit of giving back. Participants tackled a challenging 6.65-mile course over varying terrain, carrying weighted rucksacks as a testament to resilience and teamwork. This year, the Second Company Governor’s Foot Guard and members of other branches of the military were honored to join the CTNG for this meaningful event, demonstrating the unity and shared commitment among those who serve, making this year’s march especially impactful and inspiring.
As part of this event, each participating military member brought food donations, which were collected and generously donated to the Connecticut Food Bank. This incredible effort reflects the true spirit of the holiday season—giving back to those in need and making a positive difference in our local communities.
We would also like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the Meriden Lions Club for their amazing support. They provided hot coffee, delicious Danishes, and egg sandwiches to all the participants, giving everyone the fuel they needed to take on the challenge and complete the march. A special thanks to the CTNG for their tireless efforts in organizing this annual event. Your dedication ensures that we come together not just as service members but as a unified community ready to support one another.
To everyone who marched, contributed, or supported this event: thank you for your generosity, teamwork, and unwavering spirit. Together, we carry not only our rucks but the hope and joy of the holiday season for those in need.
Our 2024 HolidayRuck March was a tremendous success, bringing together members from across the CT Army and Air National Guard as well as reservists , Marines , Navy, Veterans and family. Events such as this bring our entire military family together to celebrate each other and our many collective accomplishments over the past year. Thank you to all who came out! Thank you to my predecessors who established this tradition and a special thanks to the Lions Club for your generosity in supporting us year after year. We also donated close to 600 lbs of food to the Food Pantry! Your CT Guard family doing great things Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!
Connecticut National Guard Annual Holiday Ruck March 2024!
Today, the Connecticut National Guard came together for our annual Holiday Ruck March, a tradition that not only builds strength and camaraderie but also gives us the chance to reflect on the spirit of service and community. Members of the Guard marched through challenging terrain, pushing their limits while keeping the holiday spirit alive.
We are proud of all those who participated, demonstrating resilience and dedication to our mission and our communities. As we head into the season of giving, we are reminded of the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and supporting one another.
Thank you to all the service members who made today possible, and to everyone who continues to support the CT National Guard! Happy Holidays!