On October 4, 2025, members of IAM Local 778, with support from 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. initiative.
Participants carried backpacks and wagons filled with food donations as they made their way to the Veterans Community Project (VCP) community center and tiny home village. The VCP provides a variety 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 offers additional support by providing facilities for veterans’ pets, such as a dog park, a dog wash station, and access to a volunteer veterinarian. These features are designed to help veterans maintain stability and dignity while fostering a sense of community.
IAM Union members emphasized the importance of supporting military veterans through this event. They credited Carlos Rentas for inviting and inspiring them to participate. The day was described as a reminder of what can be achieved when communities work together in service to others.
“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.”
