RIVER FALLS – A 3.72-mile "Heroes

Ruck & Rally" patriotic walk patterned af – ter an Army "ruck march" will kick o a Saturday, May 14, open house at the River Falls American Legion. All are welcome to join the walk, helping to symbolically "Carry the Load" of those who sacri.ced physically and/or mentally through military service.

The ruck walk is free to participants, though donations are accepted. Pre-registra- tion is encouraged; call 763-226-0669. On- site registration starts at 10 a.m. at the Le- gion, 701 N. Main St. The national anthem will precede the walk start at 11 a.m.

The open house is open to the public throughout the day, whether they participate in the walk or not. In addition to the Le-

gion-related groups, the event will include representatives and displays of other military and community support organizations and agencies including police, .re, county vet – eran service ocers, Sheep Dog, the Travis Manion Foundation, Heart & Hustle, Cast & Hook, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and the La Crosse Veterans Outreach Team.

Veterans can receive free haircuts. Music, food and a variety of children's activities will be available throughout the day as well.

A concluding formal .ag retirement cer – emony featuring the Post 121 Honor Guard will start at 2:30 p.m. and feature a .ring salute and Taps, Lowering of old Colors and Raising of New Colors, and more. "We're pleased to be able to host this open house to share not just what we do, but what these fellow service organizations and individuals are also doing to enhance the lives of veterans, military families and others," said Missy Hildebrandt, Post 121 commander.

Submitted by American Legion Post 121