Vic Wise had an idea.
He gathered a group of friends, and they set off from Richmond at 7:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 8 bound for Arlington National Cemetery.
He planned to make it to the cemetery by 7:30 a.m. Sunday. The walk would serve as a “thank you” to members of the U.S. military.
About 11 a.m., Wise and his group were walking on Route 1 north in Stafford County. They were carrying large U.S. flags, and cars driving by honked their horns in approval.
‘This is just our way of saying thank you to those who have served,” said Wise.
His group goes by the name “Freedom Ruck,” and it has raised $9,000 for veterans causes this year. This year marks the third year for the march from Virginia’s capital to the Northern Virginia.
The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office provided an escort for the walkers as they made their way through the area. Spotsylvania, Prince William, and Fairfax counties also lined up to escort the group their respective jurisdictions.
Wise and 14 others reached their destination late Saturday night. He thanked supporters who came out to greet them along the way in a video posted to Facebook. It was cold, wet, and raining when the group made it to Arlington, according to the video.
Wise did not serve in the military. His father served in the National Guard, and his brother serves in the Army.
Recent Stories
Seven-month-old Zeke has been growing up in his foster home, eagerly awaiting a family to call his own.
Celebrate Mardi Gras in style with Virginia’s best street brass band, Elby Brass! Reclaim Arcade is hosting a night of revelry featuring masks, beads, and all your favorite retro arcade games.
The February 19, 2025, Prince William County School Board meeting devolved into a shouting match between board members Loree Williams of Woodbridge and Erica Tredinnick of Brentsville. Williams refused to acknowledge Tredinnick as a black woman as part of her Black History Month statement.
In December 2024, Northeastern Supply, a plumbing, HVAC, PVF, and water system supplies distributor, opened its new location at 9751 Center Street in the former Southern States feed store building.
A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
