Boston Marathon
“For me, this ruck is about honoring SSG Shaw and preserving the memory of a true hero who gave everything for his team,” Fulton said.
Jeff Fulton will run the Tough Ruck Marathon on April 19. Jeff Fulton
April 14, 2026 | 5:13 PM
1 minute to read
In our “Why I’m Running” series, Boston Marathon athletes share what’s inspiring them to make the 26.2-mile trek from Hopkinton to Boston. Looking for more race day content? Sign up for Boston.com’s pop-up Boston Marathon newsletter.
Name: Jeff Fulton
Age: 42
From: Simpsonville, South Carolina
I served 12 years in the United States Army as a Combat Engineer and completed two combat tours in Afghanistan. During one of our route clearance missions, our patrol came under attack. A dismounted soldier standing next to me was struck by an RPG. That soldier was SSG Shaw.
Moments like that stay with you forever. The courage, the sacrifice, and the reality that some men willingly stand their ground to protect their brothers, even knowing the price may be their life.
When I learned about the Tough Ruck Marathon in Boston, I knew immediately that I had to participate. For me, this ruck is about honoring SSG Shaw and preserving the memory of a true hero who gave everything for his team.
But, my mission goes beyond one name. Since returning home, I’ve seen the lasting impact of invisible wounds carried by many soldiers. Too often, those injuries were not recognized or treated in time. The men and women who served beside me deserved support long after the mission ended.
This year, I will be rucking in honor of 19 brothers and one military dog who are no longer with us — soldiers who paid the ultimate price either overseas or after returning home. Each mile represents their sacrifice, their service, and the bond that never fades.
Training for this event is demanding, but, when the miles get long, I think about them. Their memory pushes me forward.
They may be gone, but they will never be forgotten.
Essayons.
Editor’s note: This entry may have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar.
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