Last updated on May 25, 2025
On Memorial Day weekend, the streets of Rockwall will once again echo with footsteps of remembrance as citizens gather at the Rockwall County Courthouse—not just to walk, but to carry the legacy of America’s heroes. At the heart of this effort is Carry The Load, a powerful non-profit movement founded by two U.S. Navy SEAL veterans that’s inspiring thousands across the nation to reconnect with the true meaning of Memorial Day.
Founded in 2011 by Clint Bruce and Stephen Holley, Carry The Load began as a single walk with a heavy pack and a heavier heart. For Bruce, the road march was a way to honor friends lost in combat and cope with the grief of returning home to a country that, in his eyes, had forgotten what Memorial Day was truly about.
“I came home missing many of my friends,” Bruce shared. “And I came home to a nation that, to me, felt like it had forgotten the meaning of Memorial Day.” Encouraged by his wife, he began a solo march, carrying a pound in his pack for each fallen friend. The pain was real, but purposeful: “Good pain pushes out bad pain.”
As he walked, an elderly man—believed to be a World War II veteran—asked Bruce a question that would shape a movement: “Who are you carrying?”
From that question, a mission was born.
A National Movement, Rooted in Community
Today, Carry The Load has grown into a national force for remembrance. The nonprofit has raised over $46 million and hosts events across all 50 states. Yet, its power lies not in its size but in its heart—real people honoring real heroes.
Rod Gregg, a former law enforcement officer and Carry The Load ambassador, has witnessed the emotional weight and healing these events bring.
“Over the years, I’ve talked to many participants who lost friends or family in service,” Gregg said. “They share their stories, and they become a part of the fantastic tapestry that I carry in my heart. One Vietnam veteran told us he finally felt whole after 50 years. That’s the kind of healing Carry The Load brings.”
In Rockwall, that healing is personal.
Team Paladin, one of the many local Carry The Load teams, is comprised of active and retired law enforcement, veterans, and community patriots. For them, the Rockwall walk on May 24th is more than a local event—it’s a shared mission.
“We love America, and we love our heroes who died and those who live in our community,” said Gregg. “By marching, we remember why and for who we do it.”
Memorial May: A Month of Honor
Carry The Load’s month-long initiative, Memorial May, culminates in citywide marches across the nation. In Texas, the turnout is especially strong. Rockwall, known for its patriotic spirit, has seen dozens show up even in the middle of the night in past years just to walk and reflect.
Gregg notes, “Texans believe in the meaning of the flag, the country, and the sacrifices made. Memorial May gives people an active way to honor that belief.”
This year, Rockwall’s event will take place on Saturday, May 24, beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the Rockwall County Courthouse. The evening will feature:
- The National Anthem and inspiring patriotic music
- Speeches from local veterans and first responders
- A ceremonial 2.5-mile walk through Rockwall’s city center
- An honor guard, bagpipes, and the playing of “Taps”
The event is free and open to the public. Families, individuals, and teams are all encouraged to attend.
Beyond Memorial Day
Carry The Load’s mission doesn’t end in May. Year-round programs include cemetery beautification projects on Patriot Day, a national 100,000 Meter Challenge during Veterans Day, and opportunities for volunteers and companies to engage through ambassador visits and fundraising.
“Carry The Load gives Americans something they’ve longed for—an active way to give back,” said Holley. “It’s about pride, community, and remembrance.”
A Personal Load, Shared Together
For Gregg, the walk is always personal. He carries the memories of officers he once served with—Officer Gerald Walker, Officer David Moore, and Officer Ronnie Lerma.
“They were my friends,” he said. “They laughed with me, served with me, and they died with honor. I will never stop carrying them.”
To those unfamiliar with the event, Gregg offers simple advice: “Just show up. You’ll walk away inspired. You’ll want to come back every year.”
Event Details: Carry The Load – Rockwall Walk
Date: Saturday, May 24, 2025
Location: Rockwall County Courthouse
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Agenda Highlights:
- 6:30 p.m. National Anthem
- 6:50 p.m. Veteran and First Responder Speakers
- 7:30 p.m. 2.5-mile memorial walk begins
To register or learn more, visit: www.carrytheload.org
Watch the full story:
Carry The Load: The Story
Memorial May 2024 Recap
