My name is Andrew Staruk - as a proud Air Force Veteran and Worcester Fire Fighter, I’ve had the honor of being part of Tough Ruck Nation - a group of 1,000 veterans and first responders whocomplete a marathon while carrying weighted rucksacks in tribute to our fallen heroes.
On Saturday, April 19, 2026, I will once again take on this challenge. Each mile I ruck, I will carry with me the names of fallen military and first responders, ensuring their sacrifice is never forgotten. The Tough Ruck is the only event of its kind and is officially partnered with the Boston Marathon.
Why your support matters:
Military families represent less than 0.5% of our nation’s population, yet their sacrifices are immense - multiple deployments, missed milestones, and the ever-present readiness to serve. Behind that courage, many face urgent crises: combat injuries, devastating house fires, debilitating illnesses, or emergency travel during deployment. For Gold Star Families, the challenges run even deeper as they navigate life after the loss of their loved one.
Military Friends Foundation (Tax ID: 37-1462599) is proud to be the official charity of Tough Ruck Nation and as a recognized 501(c)(3) tax-deductible charitable organization, your donation is an investment in the strength, dignity, and well-being of those who protect our freedoms. Every donation, big or small, provides a lifeline to a Warrior and their family.
When those moments strike, help cannot wait. That’s why the Military Friends Foundation provides rapid-response financial aid, wellness programs, and community-building events that ensure no Massachusetts Warrior Family is left behind.
Here’s how you can help:
● Become a Sponsor – Your sponsorship helps fund direct aid to Service Members and Gold Star Families across the Commonwealth.
● Donate a Raffle Item – Support our fundraising raffles with goods or services that benefit this cause.
● Attend a Fundraiser – Join us at one of our upcoming events and stand with those who serve and protect us.
Tough Ruckers have a legacy of service; they were at the Boston Marathon finish line and were among the first to aid victims of the tragic bombings. Today, the tradition continues the weekend before Marathon Monday. Finishers are awarded the official Boston Marathon medal and recognized by the Boston Athletic Association, underscoring the deep connection between this event and our nation’s resilience.
For event details, please visit: https://toughruck.org
For Sponsor levels, Please visit: https://toughruck.org/sponsor-opportunities/
To donate directly to my effort: https://runsignup.com/Staruk_TR
We invite you to stand with us in building a Commonwealth where no Warrior Family faces hardship alone. Together, we can honor their sacrifices with action. That is our promise. That is our mission.
