New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services recently announced a city-sponsored “Remembrance Ruck” to celebrate its veteran and military-affiliated community.
This will be a historic first for New York City, marking the first time veteran groups from all five boroughs have come together for a ruck.
The city-sponsored ruck will be held on Sept. 13th. Beginning at Cadman Plaza in Brooklyn, it will span across the Brooklyn Bridge and culminate in a resource fair at Foley Square in Manhattan, where veterans can access information about supportive housing, mental health services and other assistance the city provides the veteran community.
“New York City is incomplete without our veterans, whose contribution to this city is immeasurable. I am thrilled to be hosting and participating in the first-ever city-sponsored ruck where we will be gathering for a day of remembrance, gratitude and support,” Mamdani said. “Our administration is grateful to our veterans’ contributions to New York City and committed to supporting them in return, not just through celebratory events but through long-term, durable support.”
Rucking involves walking or hiking a measured distance, usually using a weighted backpack or vest, although it can be done with no weight at all.
The inaugural Remembrance Ruck will offer an opportunity to foster community, connection and recognition of service. Participants will carry the names of fallen soldiers, ensuring they are never forgotten. Taking place near the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11, the Remembrance Ruck is one of multiple events that honor post-9/11 veterans in New York City.
“Every step of this Remembrance Ruck carries purpose, honoring our post-9/11 veterans and the families who stand beside them. Because when one person serves, an entire family carries the burden, the pride and the sacrifice,” said Department of Veteran Services’ Commissioner Yesenia Mata.
Mata, who also serves as a civil affairs officer in the United States Army Reserve, added that through the Remembrance Ruck, the city will be bringing together veteran communities and supporters to stand as one, recreating the camaraderie that doesn’t fade after service.
“This is not just remembrance—it is action,” said Mata. “With every mile, we reaffirm our promise: we are here, we care and New York City will never leave a veteran behind. This goes beyond ceremony; it is a living commitment to those who gave so much.”
The event will take place in lieu of the “Homecoming of Heroes” Ticker Tape Parade, which honors post 9/11 combat veterans in Iraq and Afghanistan, first responders and their families.
Additional information, including community and celebratory events, will be released in the upcoming months.
