On October 4, 2025, members of 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 walked 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 in navigating VA benefits and resources.
The VCP stands out for its holistic approach to supporting veterans. In addition to basic services, it provides amenities for pets such as a dog park, a dog wash station, and access to a volunteer veterinarian.
IAM Union members emphasized solidarity within their military veteran community through this event. Organizers expressed appreciation for Carlos Rentas’s invitation and inspiration for the initiative.
“IAM Local 778 is exemplifying why we created the IAM Midwest Territory H.E.L.P.S. program,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “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.”
The organizers hope this annual event will continue to support local veterans while fostering collaboration among union members.
