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Rudolph’s Ruck and Toy Drive spreads holiday cheer

Mary Spangler ’23 at Rudoph’s Ruck and Toy Drive

Last updated December 5, 2022

By Tina Underwood

Furman University Army ROTC’s first annual Rudolph’s Ruck and Toy Drive garnered the attention of FOX Carolina over the weekend. The ruck, aka a hike, march or fast walk, gets its name from the heavy ruck sacks cadets carry in military exercises. Furman senior Mary Spangler organized the event designed to spread holiday cheer and benefit patients at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital.

“The best part of this entire program that we’ve set up is just how much people want to help us,” Spangler told a reporter. “It’s been very heartwarming to see. I’ve had lots of friends and family who can’t make it, but they still gave a toy to donate to the children. Being able to spread that sense of holiday spirit, but also giving families an opportunity to be uplifted in the community – that’s been very powerful to watch,” she added. 

Rainy conditions didn’t stop Furman Army ROTC cadets and the public from joining in the first annual Rudolph’s Ruck and Toy Drive.

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