ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Hundreds of people participate in the Sgt. Anthony Patrick Muhlstadt Ruck every year.
The Ruck raises awareness and works to combat veteran suicide. The term “ruck” can refer to a bag or a hike where a person carries a bag. The term is often used in the military.
Chase Georgevich said preparing his ruck connects him to his best friend. Chase said the 50 pounds of gear is a reminder of his friend and all the service members who have lost their lives to suicide.
“I would give anything to tell my best friend that, like, ‘Hey dude, you’re just having a bad night,'” he said. ‘Let’s go hang out. Let’s go grab a beer. Let’s go play pool. Let’s do anything. Let’s just talk.'”
Anthony Patrick Muhlstadt lost his life to suicide five years ago.
Anthony’s mother, Tanya Mort, said her son always knew he wanted to serve our country.
She describes him as loyal, dedicated, and a true leader.
He’s why she started the Sgt. Anthony Patrick Muhlstadt Foundation.
“We don’t want any more CACOs (Casualty Assistance Calls Officer) knocking on families’ doors, telling them they lost their son or daughter to suicide,” she said.
The money the organization raises goes to Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training.
This helps others recognize suicidal risk and provide life-saving first aid.
“I think that most people, they don’t recognize it, they don’t see it, or they believe that it couldn’t happen to them until it does,” Tanya said.
The Ruck is on June 6.
The first year, they had 250 participants. Tanya says that this year, they’re expecting around 700.
According to the Department of War, 471 service members died by suicide in 2024.
To learn more about the event, click here.