Laredo veterans groups preview run, ruck march, bingo and Vetcon turnout

Committee members used the June 9 meeting to share upcoming event details and recent turnout figures.

Randy Venoa promoted the Signal Run, a convergence event on June 13 tied to a suicide-prevention initiative; the event includes multiple distances (32-mile ruck, marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K and a 1K tribute walk honoring Vietnam veterans). Venoa said registration is free and encouraged, and that the VA suicide-prevention coordinator and rural faith program staff will provide resources along the route.

Jesus Rivas (VFW/BFW) gave a recap of recent events: he said the Run to Remember exceeded expectations with roughly 330 participants and that Vetcon drew just under 200 attendees. Jackie Parish (American Legion) announced a Father’s Day bingo on June 28 at 4:00 p.m. at the Legion, open to the public, and said a firearms raffle will be delayed from July to August with ticket and flyer details forthcoming.

The VFW also previewed plans for a Ruck March on July 4 tied to the 250th celebration; route changes were under consideration because of Loop 20 construction and organizers said they will circulate a flyer when the route and exact start time are finalized.