James Tallakson

"I live in Virginia and served as an infantryman both on active duty and in the national guard.

"Got into rucking through the military (gotta be able to ruck, especially as an infantryman). I ruck for my mental health: On a ruck you can't quit, the same as you cant quit in life.

"My favorite ruck was GAFPB in 2025 as it was vindication for not getting my GAFPB in 2021 and they made everyone do the gold standard ruck.

"My go to setup is a modified alice pack (as its way more comfortable than the army issued molle ruck) and either a ball cap or a boonie.

"My best advise for rucking is to find your motivation. I hear a lot of people say they don't like rucking, but I've always loved it! Rucking gets better when you stop seeing it as I have to walk long distances with heavy weight. That's why I love this group as each ruck is a challenge, and the foreign awards are a physical item to show you met that challenge and a memory you will have forever. It's even better when you can do it as a group!"

JAMES TALLAKSON, VIRGINA, USA