Entertainment

Let's Walk It Out: Bridging the gap in veteran suicide

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Tuesday, 18 March 2025

Written by Jamie Bishop

Every step counts in the fight against veteran suicide. For the past five years, Let’s Walk It Out - 222 Mile Ruck March Inc. has served as a beacon of hope, standing at the forefront of awareness, intervention, and breaking the stigma surrounding post-traumatic stress and suicide.
Founded by JP Cervantes, a U.S. Army Special Forces veteran, the organization’s mission is clear: to honor those lost to suicide, support those struggling, and build a stronger community that refuses to let its heroes suffer in silence. With thousands of participants, supporters, and volunteers rallying behind the cause, Let’s Walk It Out has grown into a movement of resilience, unity, and purpose.
Let’s Walk It Out’s 5th annual 222-mile ruck march is scheduled for April 3 through 12. This milestone event promises to be bigger than ever, incorporating new initiatives and further expanding its reach.
"At Let's Walk It Out, we recognize the silent struggles our heroes face, and we aim to be a force for positive change," Cervantes said. "Physical pain may find relief through rest and medication, but emotional anguish isn’t as easily remedied."
A March of Meaning: The Why Behind the 222 Miles
The Let’s Walk It Out ruck is not just a physical test; it is a symbolic and emotional journey. Covering 222 miles from Fayetteville to Camp Lejeune and back, the march mirrors the mental burden that many veterans, first responders, and law enforcement officers carry every day.
“Why 222 miles?” Cervantes said. “Because we want to mimic the pain that people suffering from PTS feel mentally. We want to remind them that pain will stop. For us, it stops every 22 miles when we complete a leg for the day. But for someone struggling with thoughts of suicide, they need that reminder: just keep pushing through, and eventually, the pain will end.”
Each participant carries a rucksack, symbolizing the weight of the struggles service members endure. The journey is grueling, but it is designed to remind participants—and those they walk for—that they are not alone.
The Power of Connection
The march’s impact extends beyond those carrying rucksacks. Let’s Walk It Out fosters connections between strangers, unites communities, and creates moments of
profound meaning.
During a previous march, Ryan Oldenburg, a participant and veteran, was stopped by a young woman outside a Subway restaurant. She handed him a small note, its message simple yet deeply powerful:
"Thank you for what you're doing because I had those ideas in the past."
Moments like these reaffirm the necessity of this movement.
“When people approach us and share their stories, it reminds us that we’re making a real difference,” Cervantes said. “That’s what keeps us going.”
A Community Effort
Throughout the 222-mile journey, support comes from all directions. Cervantes highlighted the overwhelming response from local fire departments, sheriff’s offices, and police departments along the route.
"We never ask them for an escort or assistance, but they show up anyway. They tell us, ‘You’re not doing this alone. We’ll be there,’ because they understand this fight is personal for them too.”
Beyond law enforcement, everyday citizens contribute in extraordinary ways. Some walk a mile alongside the marchers, others offer water and snacks, while some simply stand on the roadside to cheer them on.
Even firefighters in full gear have joined in solidarity, proving that no matter the uniform or occupation, the mission is universal.
New Initiative: The Service and Sacrifice Scholarship Fund
As Let’s Walk It Out continues to grow, so does its impact. Cervantes announced a groundbreaking new initiative—the Service and Sacrifice Scholarship Fund—aimed at providing educational assistance to families of veterans and first responders who have died by suicide.
"We discovered that in many fire and police departments if an officer or firefighter dies by suicide, their family doesn’t receive any benefits. That’s unacceptable,” Cervantes said.
The fund will offer scholarships between $1,500 and $2,000 to spouses and children of those lost to suicide. Whether for college, trade school, or professional certification, the goal is to ease financial burdens and provide a path forward.
“If we can help a spouse or child get the education they need to support their family then we’re accomplishing our mission,” Cervantes added.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
A key component of Let’s Walk It Out’s mission is ensuring that those struggling know help is available. The organization prominently shares the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, reminding all that they are never alone.
Call 988 or 1-800-273-8255
Chat live at https://www.letswalkitout.org
“This is about getting people the support they need before it’s too late,” Cervantes said.
Merchandise That Makes a Difference
Supporters who want to contribute to the cause can do so by purchasing Let’s Walk It Out merchandise. Through a collaboration with Red 7 Tees, the organization offers high-quality hoodies, t-shirts, hats, silkies, and tanks—all designed to raise awareness and fund future initiatives. These can be found at https://letswalkitout.red7tees.com
“Every purchase helps us continue this mission,” Cervantes said. “It’s another way for people to show their support and help us save lives.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
As the organization prepares for its 5th annual march, Cervantes and his team are looking ahead with optimism. Registration is not required, but a signed liability waiver is mandatory for participation. Service dogs are welcome, but owners must provide for their care. Those interested in joining the march can contact the Logistics Coordinator, Kristin, at kristin@letswalkitout.org.
"We keep growing, we keep expanding, and we keep making an impact," Cervantes said. "Our goal is to make 2025 the biggest year yet."
Why It Matters
For Cervantes, Let’s Walk It Out is more than an event—it’s a mission. The march represents the invisible battles many veterans fight daily, and it is a rallying call for communities to stand together in support.
"At the end of the day, this is about people," Cervantes said. "It’s about making sure no one feels like they have to carry their burdens alone."
With every step, every mile, and every conversation sparked along the journey, Let’s Walk It Out continues to bridge the gap in veteran suicide prevention—one ruck march at a time.
For more information, to donate, or to get involved, visit https://www.letswalkitout.org. Let’s Walk It Out - 222 Mile Ruck March Inc, is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt non-profit organization.

(Photo courtesy of Let's Walk It Out 222 Mile Ruck March Inc.)

RHFNow hosts Ninja Warrior Course at Rick’s Place

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Tuesday, 18 March 2025

Written by Amber Little

American Ninja Warrior is a fast-paced, adrenaline-filled obstacle course that requires skill and strength.
For anyone who has ever thought they could beat the course and come out unscathed on the other side, RHFNow invites you to come out and test your skills at the annual Ninja Warrior Course at Ricks Place located at 5572 Shenandoah Drive, right off of Raeford Road in Fayetteville. The course will be open two weekends, March 22 and 23 and March 29 and 30, with four time slots daily starting at 9 a.m. except on closing Sunday.
Competitors will have a choice between an Intermediate course (50% success rate) and an Elite course (10% success rate). Both courses have been used in American Ninja Warrior competitions. Competitors can register online at https://rhfnow.org/ninja-warrior/. This event is free for Military with I.D., $60 for civilians, $15 for civilian spectators, and free for military personnel. The event will also have rock climbing walls, food trucks, and new this year, First Aid Certification onsite.
RHFNow Foundation is always looking for volunteers and sponsors for the event. Those interested in donating physical time or monetarily can do so online at https://rhfnow.org/ninja/. During the week, the course will be used by Fort Bragg units for team-building exercises, operational days and a little fun. As a thank you to volunteers, the Monday after closing is just for those who help make the event run as smoothly as possible for the public and create an enjoyable experience for families.
RHFNow is a local nonprofit geared toward providing services and recreational activities for military families in the area at its facility, Rick’s Place. Named after Sgt. 1st Class Richard J. Herrema, who lost his life during Operation Iraqi Freedom, this 50-acre interactive recreation facility is the perfect representation of its namesake’s life philosophy.
The property is located right behind a bustling family neighborhood, and boasts a tree house, barn, pavilion, book exchange sponsored by Cumberland County Library, playground, a pond, and plenty of open space for camp outs.
While facilities like the pavilion, tree house, and playground are open to the public, RHFNow hosts events exclusively for military families, like Messy Monday, an art program sponsored and instructed by KidCreate Studio. Rick’s Place is truly magical and a gem for the entire community.
John Yerby, Deputy Executive Director, noted that several homeschool groups use the pavilion as an outdoor classroom. The tree house is the pillar of the property, wrapping and winding across several trees on the property. The playground is a popular feature that Yerby says they are more than happy to share with the community.
“We don’t mind when the families come down. Matter of fact, we love it. They watch over our property.”
Rick’s Place is a place of community, a place where soldiers and their families can unwind and make memories between deployments.
“The Rick Herrema Foundation is changing the way America cares for their military families,” Yerby said.
Programs include:
• Cooking Matters: bringing cooking classes right into the home
• Bend & Brew: yoga, and coffee to start the day fresh
• Camping @ Rick’s Place: a night of bonding and camping on the yard
For more information on programs and events visit the website at https://rhfnow.org/events/ and https://rhfnow.org/programs/
For information on Camp Rick’s Place, a 2-week camp (3 sessions) visit https://rhfnow.org/camps/.

(Photo: The tree house at Rick's Place is the centerpiece of the property. Photo courtesy of RHFNow Foundation's Facebook Page)

Fort Bragg MWR's annual 5K and Half Marathon

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Tuesday, 18 March 2025

Written by Anna White

Fort Bragg’s Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation is hosting the All American Races on March 22. It’s an opportunity for everyone, soldiers and the community alike, to test their limits, enjoy the outdoors, and celebrate at the Finish Fest.
“It’s bringing soldiers, families, and the community together,” said Amanda Cahill, Special Event Coordinator for Fort Bragg MWR. She said the MWR seeks to provide recreational opportunities that enhance fitness and wellbeing.
Cahill explained that the All American Marathon started in 2014 with a full marathon, half marathon, and 5k. During the COVID-19 pandemic, like many other community events, the All American was on hold for a few years. In 2023, it came back, and this will be its 3rd year operating post-COVID. Now, it features a half marathon and 5k. They expect to see a total of around 2,300 participants and likely will reach registration capacity.
The half marathon and 5k will begin respectively at 7 a.m. and 7:20 a.m. Both begin and end at the main Post Parade Field. Cahill commented that they hope to see favorable weather, but March in North Carolina can be unpredictable.
“There have been years where it's been freezing, there have been years where it's been a little bit warmer,” she explained, “We're just hoping that it'll be a great weather day.”
She encourages participants to keep an eye on the weather, be prepared, and dress appropriately.
According to the MWR website, every registered runner will receive an All American Races participant t-shirt, race bib, a custom race medal and a beer/beverage.
All runners who complete the All American half marathon within the 4 hour time limit will receive a finisher medal. There will also be awards given to the top 3 males, top 3 females, top 3 wheelchair athletes, and age group awards according to the following groupings: 16-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80+
Runners who compete in the All American 5K are eligible for awards in the following categories: top 3 males, top 3 females, top 3 wheelchair athletes, and age group awards: 9 and under, 10-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80+
In addition to race awards, visitors are eligible to participate in giveaways hosted by event sponsors. Event sponsors can be found at the Finish Fest and include Veterans United Home Loans, USAA, Fort Liberty Federal Credit Union, Gary Sinise Foundation, AUSA Fort Liberty Chapter, Telemynd, Smith Douglas Homes, Wake Spine and Pain, BSN Sports, Wear Blue Run to Remember, Hendrick Toyota Fayetteville, Healy Wholesale Co. Inc., Shuttle Buddy, Hoist IV Level Hydration, Martial Arts of NC.
The finish fest will also include live entertainment by the 82nd Airborne Division rock band, a children’s play area with bounce houses, food vendors and more.
Cahill said they are always in search of volunteers to help at the event. This can be a way to fulfill volunteer hours or simply enjoy what the MWR website described as a “unique and rewarding experience.” According to the MWR website volunteer opportunities include:
Water Station Attendants – Mix electrolyte products, distribute water, and cheer on runners.
Course Marshals – Motivate runners, steer them in the right direction, and maintain the flow of the races.
Start/Finish Line – Assisting in the setup of the start/finish line area and passing out water/electrolytes and medals at the finish line.
Finish Festival – Jobs include food tent attendant, volunteer check-in, information tent attendant and trash detail.
Volunteers must be at least 12 years old and if under 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult. For information on volunteer opportunities, call 910-908-5977.
Cahill shared that the event is open both to military and civilians.
“Whether you're participating in the race, whether you are volunteers, whether you're a spectator, we really encourage everyone to come out,” she said.
Registration for the All American Races must be completed online and ends March 21st at 7 p.m., or when sold out. The event is open to children as well, providing they are registered and are at least 16 years old if they are participating in the half marathon. The 5k course is stroller-friendly, and participants pushing a stroller will be asked to use the stroller line-up to ensure safety.
There are a variety of sponsorship opportunities for businesses that wish to support the All American Races. According to the MWR website, sponsors can choose advertising options that include a finish chute banner or mile-marker road sign, as well as participate in the Finish Fest and interact with the Fort Bragg community.
Packet pick-up is on March 21, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Hodge Room at the Iron Mike Conference Center.
Visit bragg.army.mwr.com for more details on registration, volunteering, or advertising.

Downtown Fayetteville, 4th Friday is back!

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Tuesday, 18 March 2025

Written by Sheila D. Barker

As the warmer months approach, Downtown Fayetteville comes alive with the return of 4th Friday! From March to October, on the fourth Friday of each month, the streets of Fayetteville transform into a bustling hub of art, music, and community spirit.
The 4th Friday season kicks off on March 28 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This event is a celebration of the best visual and performing arts that Fayetteville has to offer. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a music lover, or just looking for a fun evening out, 4th Friday has something for everyone.
What to Expect
• Visual and Performing Arts: Explore local galleries and witness live performances by talented artists.
• Live Music: Enjoy a variety of musical acts that will keep you entertained throughout the evening.
• Street Performers: Be amazed by the skills of street performers who bring an extra layer of excitement to the event.
• Local Shops and Bistros: Support local businesses by visiting unique shops and enjoying delicious meals at independent bistros.
During the March 4th Friday, the "Walk Awhile" event will also take place, starting at 6 p.m. This adds an extra dimension to the evening, encouraging attendees to explore and engage with the vibrant community.
4th Friday is a fantastic opportunity to experience the dynamic arts and entertainment district of Downtown Fayetteville. Bring your friends and family and immerse yourself in a night of creativity and culture. Don't miss out on this monthly celebration that highlights the heart and soul of Fayetteville. Here are the dates and themes planned for the rest of the year:
• April 25 – Poetry Market
• May 23 – Nerd Market
• June 27 – Health and Wellness & District Vibe
• July 25 – District Vibe
• August 22– Nerd Market & District Vibe
• September 26 – International 4th Friday
• October 24 – Zombie Walk
If you are interested in being a vendor find fees and application here: https://www.eventeny.com/company/?c=144311