On October 4, 2025, members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 778, supported by IAM District 70 and the IAM Local 839 Veterans Committee, held their first annual Ruck-N-Rolls road march in Kansas City, Missouri. The event was part of the IAM Local 778 H.E.L.P.S. program.
Participants carried backpacks and wagons filled with food donations as they made their way to the Veterans Community Project (VCP) community center and tiny home village. The VCP provides a range of services for veterans in need, including medical, dental, and mental health care. It also connects veterans with Veteran Service Officers who assist them in accessing VA benefits and resources.
The VCP stands out for its approach to supporting veterans holistically. In addition to services for individuals, it offers amenities for pets such as a dog park, a dog wash station, and access to a volunteer veterinarian.
IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli commented on the event: “IAM Local 778 is exemplifying why we created the IAM Midwest Territory H.E.L.P.S. program. Our members are ready and enthusiastic about stepping up for efforts they care about. Supporting and honoring veterans has become a core value of our union, in addition to service to the general community. Our territory and membership is happy to uplift veterans in our communities, and Local 778 has admirably organized what will be an event that members look forward to every year.”
Local organizers credited Carlos Rentas with providing inspiration for participating in the event.
The Ruck-N-Rolls march highlighted both support within the IAM’s military veteran community and its ongoing commitment to serving those who have served in uniform.
