US Army Battalion Supports Okmulgee With Annual Food Drive

A year ago, Janet Watkins of the Salvation Army was anxious about not having enough canned food to help Okmulgee County families during the holidays.

Fortunately, she did not have to look very far for help.

The 316th Quartermaster Battalion of the U.S. Army are located right down the street.

When asked if they could help donate, reserves on base did not hesitate to lend a hand.

"I proposed it to the soldiers and all the hands went up," Master Sgt. Jeremie Johnson said.

With that, the Ruck Out Hunger Ruck March was created. Saturday was their second annual event.

Forty-three soldiers marched from East 12th Street and East 8th Street to donate 1,300 pounds of nonperishable goods.

The 1,300 pounds of food exceeded the expected 900-pound goal for this year.

Johnson said he and the soldiers wanted to find some way of saying thanks to the community that has supported them for a long time.

"This is one of the greatest ways to give back," Johnson said. "The city of Okmulgee has been so generous and kind to the 316th."

Johnson also said he hopes the amount of donations can reach more than 1,500 pounds in 2021.

Watkins is glad she can feed families in need. She believes the partnership the Salvation Army has with the U.S. Army’s 316th Quartermaster Battalion was meant to be.

"All these steps… God had all prepared," Watkins said.