Reps. Collin Duel, R-Guthrie, and Ty Burns, R-Pawnee, invite all Oklahomans to attend the second annual Oklahoma Memorial Trail Ruck-Off in Guthrie, Oklahoma, on Saturday, May 18, 2024. 

The event aims to raise awareness about veteran issues, support military recruitment efforts and promote the newly created Oklahoma Military Trails.

"I encourage everyone to join us on May 18 in Guthrie, whether you're walking or attending the closing ceremony," Duel said. "Your presence will help us honor and raise awareness for our veterans. I want to thank the City of Guthrie, Guthrie Chamber of Commerce and the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs for their partnership in organizing this event." 

This year's ruck-off is named in honor of Pvt Oscar J. Upham, a U.S. Marine who earned the Medal of Honor during the Boxer Rebellion. Pvt. Upham passed away at the age of 77 in Guthrie, Oklahoma.

"Members of the Legislative Veteran's Caucus and several departments in Oklahoma have been working on this project for a while now," Burns said. "We are thrilled to host it once again and excited to expand it to other regions of the state." 

The march will begin at 7:00 a.m. Participants can choose between a four-mile or a twelve-mile route, with or without a 35-pound ruck. The closing ceremony is scheduled for noon at the WPA Armory, located at 724 E. Logan Ave., Guthrie, Oklahoma. 

To register for the march, visit https://calendly.com/cloverleafprecision/ruck-off-2024/