On October 4, 2025, members of IAM Local 778, supported by IAM District 70 and the IAM Local 839 Veterans Committee, organized their first annual Ruck-N-Rolls road march in Kansas City, Missouri. The event is part of the IAM Local 778 H.E.L.P.S. program.
Participants carried food donations in backpacks and wagons as they traveled to the Veterans Community Project (VCP) community center and tiny home village. The VCP offers a range of services for local veterans, including medical, dental, and mental health care. It also connects veterans with Veteran Service Officers who assist them with navigating VA benefits.
The facility includes amenities for veterans’ pets such as a dog park, wash station, and access to a volunteer veterinarian. According to organizers, these services help foster dignity and stability for those who have served in the military.
The event was recognized as an example of solidarity among union members who are military veterans. Organizers credited Carlos Rentas for his role in inviting participants and inspiring involvement in the event.
IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli said: “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.”
