FORT KNOX, Ky.- After spending ten days in the woods performing field training exercises, Cadet Duncan Lopez from Texas State University and the rest of 6th Regiment, Advanced Camp, get ready for the 12-mile ruck back to Fort Knox.

For Lopez, the 12-mile ruck was a little nerve-racking as he has only ever done a 10 mile ruck but with the motivation and camaraderie of his platoon, Lopez found a reason to keep marching.

“It’s definitely the toughest thing that’s gonna happen but I think it’s also the best because it’ll make me and my peers around me endure the last bit of pain before we can enjoy the success that comes after,” Lopez said.

Drawing inspiration from his family, who consistently help those in need, and his dad who just retired from the 82nd Airborne Division, Lopez found the best way to combine everything he learned from his family into his future.

“I grew up in a supporting family that reached out towards other people when they were in need,” Lopez said. “I wanted to follow those footsteps and support a bigger cause.”

His dad is one of the biggest role models in his life. He talks about how even though his dad was gone for years and it really impacted the family, but once he came back, he reinforced his family and showed them how rewarding hard work is in life.

“My dad is more than proud,” Lopez said. “Once he raised his right hand, he someday hoped that I would do the same, so I’m glad I can follow in his footsteps and make him proud.”

The 12-mile is the last thing the cadets have to do before family day and graduation. Going through everything Cadet Summer Training had to offer, Lopez ends with advice for cadets heading into Advanced Camp next summer.

“Everyone comes from different backgrounds, so it’s gonna be different at first,” Lopez said. “But just have an open mind and an open heart and be willing to work as a team.”