Texas A&M, UT revive tradition of “military ruck” ahead of Lonestar showdown

On November 30, 2024By Littum

COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KBTX) – A renewed tradition called the Military Ruck is back in action this year leading up to the A&M versus UT football game.

The ruck is where a game ball is transported from Austin to Kyle Field in time for Saturday’s big game.

“Ruck is a military hike or movement, based on the fact that the bag we carry is called a ruck,” said Operations Planner for the Corps of Cadets Robert Washington.

Starting Friday, members of the ROTC and Student Veterans at Texas A&M and the University of Texas at Austin will throw a game ball part of the distance from Austin to College Station.

“This event is about unity,” Washington explained. “It’s about bringing the cadets and the veterans together for a common mission to bring the ball here.”

Although about teamwork, Washington says most current cadets were too young back in 2011, when the Aggies and Longhorns last met on the gridiron.

“Being a former cadet myself, I don’t know if they really understand the burning desire we have and had to beat the hell out of TU,” Washington added.

Follow this link to follow several events that happen leading up to the lone star showdown.