Royal Oak will once again unite in gratitude and remembrance this November with two significant events: the Ruck 22 March on Saturday, November 8 at 10:00 a.m., and the Veterans Day Ceremony on Tuesday, November 11 at 11:00 a.m. Both take place at the Royal Oak War Memorial in Centennial Commons.

These events, while distinct in focus, embody a common purpose – recognizing the sacrifices of our nation’s veterans and addressing the challenges many continue to face after their service.


The Ruck 22 March: Walking for Awareness

On November 8, participants will shoulder backpacks – known as “rucks” – and step off from the War Memorial at Centennial Commons to take part in the Ruck 22 March. The 2.2-mile community walk raises awareness about one of the most pressing issues affecting veterans today: suicide. The name “Ruck 22” references the often-cited figure of 22 veterans lost to suicide each day in the United States.

Participants are encouraged to carry 22 items, 22 pounds or donate $22 as part of the march. Food and personal care items collected during the event will be donated to the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 Food Pantry in Clinton Township, and all monetary donations will support mental health programs at the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center in Detroit.

“Carrying weight in a rucksack is a military tradition meant to build strength and endurance,” said David Wandoff, chair of the Royal Oak Veterans Events Committee. “In the context of this march, it symbolizes the invisible burdens many veterans bear long after leaving active duty.”

Community members, veterans and supporters alike are invited to join, whether carrying a pack or simply walking in solidarity. Participation in the ruck march is free.


The Veterans Day Ceremony: A Time-Honored Tradition

On November 11 at 11:00 a.m., the city will gather for its annual Veterans Day Ceremony at the Royal Oak War Memorial. The date and time are deliberate and steeped in tradition, marking the armistice of World War I on the “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.”

The ceremony provides a solemn yet uplifting opportunity for the community to recognize the courage, dedication and sacrifices of America’s service members across all branches of the armed forces. Local veterans’ organizations, city officials and community leaders will be present to offer remarks and tributes. Flags will wave, wreaths will be placed and the names and faces of those who served – and those who continue to serve – will be honored.


Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemoration

This year’s Veterans Day Ceremony will be part of a nationwide, congressionally authorized effort to recognize the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans and their families. Known as the “Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemoration,” this 13-year-long initiative began in 2012 and will culminate on November 11, 2025.

The commemoration was first established by a proclamation issued by President Barack Obama in 2012, and has since been reaffirmed by presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden. The goal is to ensure that the generation of Americans who served during the Vietnam War receives the honor and gratitude they deserve – recognition long overdue for some Vietnam veterans and their families.

In Centennial Commons this November, their stories and service will be front and center. Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces **between November 1, 1955, and May 15, 1975 – regardless of location – ** and who attend the Veterans Day ceremony will receive a Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin as a lasting memento of the nation’s gratitude.

Royal Oak’s twin events this November – one focused on raising awareness, the other on remembrance – reflect a broader truth about military service. Honoring veterans is not just about history – it’s about ongoing commitment.


How You Can Take Part

Participation is simple but meaningful.

Join the March: On November 8 at 10:00 a.m., meet at the Royal Oak War Memorial in Centennial Commons for the Ruck 22 March. Bring a backpack if you wish, or simply walk in solidarity. Learn more at romi.gov/vets.

Attend the Ceremony: On November 11 at 11:00 a.m., return to the War Memorial for the Veterans Day Ceremony. Bring your family, invite your neighbors and stand together as Royal Oak honors its veterans.

Even if you can’t attend, you can help by spreading the word, supporting local veterans’ organizations or simply taking a moment to thank a veteran in your life.

The message is clear: Royal Oak remembers, Royal Oak walks alongside and Royal Oak cares.

For more information on the Veterans Day Ceremony and the Ruck 22 March, visit romi.gov/vets or follow the city on social media for updates.