By Jeff Devine, The Chronicle
FORT RUCKER, Ala. — Fort Rucker will host a series of events throughout September, giving members of the military community and surrounding Wiregrass area opportunities to honor and remember, explore career opportunities, support wounded warriors, and enjoy outdoor recreation.
The September schedule includes several events centered around remembrance of Sept. 11, a career-focused Employer Day, a kayaking event at Lake Tholocco, a hunting and fishing gear swap, and the 2026 Wounded Warrior Hunt.
9/11 Memorial Events Planned
Fort Rucker will observe the anniversary of Sept. 11 with two special remembrance activities.
A 9/11 Memorial Stairclimb is scheduled for Sept. 4 at 8:46 a.m. at Building 5700.
The installation will also hold a 9/11 Moving Tribute on Sept. 11 beginning at 8 a.m. at Fire Station 1.
The events will provide opportunities for members of the Fort Rucker community to honor and remember those affected by the Sept. 11 attacks.
Paddle in Remembrance Set for Lake Tholocco
A special “Paddle in Remembrance” event will be held Sept. 11 from 8:30 to 11 a.m. at Lake Tholocco West Beach.
Organizers describe the event as a peaceful morning of remembrance on the water, giving participants an opportunity to honor lives lost while coming together as a community.
The event is free until 11 am, and no sign-up is required. Participation will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Twenty-five kayaks will be available for use, including both single and double kayaks. Life vests will be provided with every rental.
For more information, contact Outdoor Recreation at 334-255-4305.
Employer Day to Connect Service Members With Employers
Service members preparing for their next career opportunity can attend Fort Rucker Employer Day on Sept. 15 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Soldier Service Center Atrium, Building 5700.
The Transition Assistance Program event is designed to connect service members with employers and organizations as they prepare for their next mission.
Participating organizations listed for the event include the Federal Bureau of Prisons, The Quikrete Companies, M1 Support Services, Southeast Health, CAVHCS, Air Methods, Amentum Services Inc., Blue Water Pool Service, Trawick Construction Company LLC, Army and Air Force Exchange Service, and the Alabama Department of Workforce.
The point of contact listed for the event is Alfred Alexander at [email protected]
Hunting and Fishing Gear Swap Planned
Outdoor enthusiasts will have an opportunity to swap equipment Sept. 12 when Outdoor Recreation hosts a Hunting & Fishing Gear Swap.
The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the West Beach parking lot area.
Participants are encouraged to bring unused or gently used hunting and fishing gear, clothing, and accessories and swap them for something new-to-you.
Examples of gear include hunting packs, blinds, tree stands, fishing rods, reels, and waders.
The event is free to attend and swap.
Those who want a dedicated space to display their gear can reserve a fold-out table and chair for $15 or a fold-out table, chair, and pop-up tent for $55. The prices include complete setup and breakdown.
Spaces must be reserved through Outdoor Recreation by Sept. 10.
Personal firearms, ammunition, explosives, and devices are prohibited from being swapped at the event.
For more information or to reserve a space, contact Outdoor Recreation at West Beach Road, Building 24235, or call 334-255-4305.
Wounded Warrior Hunt Returns Sept. 17-19
The 2026 Wounded Warrior Hunt will take place Sept. 17-19 at Fort Rucker as a three-day event supporting the Wounded Warrior Program.
Volunteers and guides are needed, and participants must be at least 18 years old.
Door-prize tickets are available for $5 at Outdoor Recreation, Lake Lodging, Leisure Travel, or either Joey’s Brew location.
The grand prize is a Kawasaki Mule.
A closing ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at the East Beach Lodge. Door prizes will be awarded following the ceremony, and winners do not have to be present to win.
Wounded warriors from across the Southeast will participate in the hunt free of charge through sponsor support for lodging and food. Hunters are expected from Virginia, Florida, Alabama, Kentucky, Georgia, and Mississippi.
For information about volunteering, guiding, or the event, contact Outdoor Recreation at 334-255-4305.
OKTOBERFEST
Grab your lederhosen and prepare to celebrate German culture and cuisine at the Landing on Fort Rucker. The annual celebration, which is free and open to the public, will include a DJ, live entertainment, games, and activities for all ages. It is scheduled for September 25, from 4:30pm-9:00pm.
The event will include German food, Biergarten, craft vendors, themed contests, a kids’ area with root-biergarten, inflatables, and pumpkins. Food and drinks will be for purchase while the other activities are free.
For more information, visit RUCKER.ARMYMWR.COM or call (334) 255-9801.
With remembrance activities, career resources, outdoor recreation, the Wounded Warrior Hunt, Oktoberfest, and much more all scheduled during September, Fort Rucker’s calendar offers plenty of opportunities for the military community and surrounding Wiregrass area to participate in events throughout the month.
ALL IMAGES SHARED COURTESY OF US ARMY FORT RUCKER & AVCOE.
