Jake Gales Manager of VFW POST 4066 in Shelby and his wife Peggy, front, took part in the March.

The Inaugural Major Paula Graham Memorial March is a 22 mile ruck to raise awareness for Veteran suicide. Participants had the opportunity to walk 22 miles with 22 lbs. on their backs to recognize the 22 Military personnel and Veterans who take their own lives each day in the United States.
This ruck is unique as it honors Major Paula Graham who served in the US Army Reserve for 21 years. She served many roles until eventually assuming command of A Co 3-317th INF Regt, 2 Bde.
In 2005 Major Graham was called to active duty and deployed with the 80th Training Division in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. During her service she was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and the Army Achievement Medal.
Silently, behind her military career, Paula fought a battle with depression and PTSD. She lost that battle on September 19, 2015 when she took her own life.
This ruck is hosted by a Brotherhood of Marines, several of their friends and Sara Baker, Major Graham's oldest sister.
It is the organizers' goal to raise awareness of the silent battles fought by so many in our Military and Veteran community, so that not even one loses the fight. It is our hope that no other family feels the pain of loss and grief associated with these tragic events.
Participants are invited to walk 22 miles with 22 lbs, 22 miles with 0 lbs, 10 miles with 10 lbs, 2 miles with 0 lbs, or just show up to give love and support. There was help throughout the route for those who needed it, along with information available about Veteran suicide, depression and available support groups.

Photos by Jeff Melton