Mayor Mamdani replaces ‘Homecoming of Heroes’ parade with new 9/11 'Remembrance Ruck'
The first-of-its-kind "Remembrance Ruck" will bring together veteran groups across the city on the Brooklyn Bridge to celebrate NYC vets and military community.
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This September, Mayor Zohran Mamdani is charting a new course in how he plans to honor veterans and those who made the ultimate sacrifice on Sept. 11, 2001.
The first-of-its-kind "Remembrance Ruck" will bring together veteran groups across the city on the Brooklyn Bridge to celebrate NYC vets and military community.
The ruck, which involves walking or hiking a certain distance with a weighted backpack or vest is scheduled for Sept. 13 at Cadman Plaza in Brooklyn.
Participants will ruck across the Brooklyn Bridge and end at Foly Square in Manhattan, while carrying the names of those fallen soldiers, according to the mayor's office.
The end of the ruck will include a resource fair, where veterans can get information on supportive housing, mental health services and other essential support that the city offers for veterans.
“New York City is incomplete without our veterans, whose contribution to this city is immeasurable. I am thrilled to be hosting and participating in the first-ever city sponsored ruck where we will be gathering for a day of remembrance, gratitude and support. Our administration is grateful to our veterans’ contributions to New York City and committed to supporting them in return, not just through celebratory events but through long-term, durable support.” said Mayor Mamdani.
The mayor's office says this event will be held in place of the “Homecoming of Heroes” ticker tape parade announced by the prior administration.
This summer, the Department of Veterans Services and the mayor will also participate in the International Naval Review and Parade of Tall Ships for the America 250 and Fleet Week.
“Every step of this 'Remembrance Ruck' carries purpose, honoring our post-9/11 veterans and the families who stood beside them. Because when one person serves, an entire family carries the burden, the pride, and the sacrifice. Through this Remembrance Ruck, we are bringing together veteran communities and supporters to stand as one, recreating the bond and camaraderie that never fades after service, while opening doors to the support and resources our families deserve his is not just remembrance it is action, said Yesenia Mata, Department of Veteran Services Commissioner.
City officials say that beyond the ceremony, Mayor Mamdani and the Department of Veterans’ Services are expanding support for New York City veterans, from housing and rental assistance to job training, education benefits, business support, and access to mental‑health and health care services.
