The annual Mountain Man March began in 2009 as a project of the Army ROTC to honor its graduate, 1st Lt. Frank Walkup, who was killed in action in Iraq on June 16, 2007. The event consists of a marathon (with full 35-pound pack, for ROTC participants) and concert, as well as exhibits. The Mountain Man March attracts a large number of veterans, students from other universities, bikers, and others who wish to honor those killed in action. It benefits the Children of Fallen Soldiers Relief Fund, which assists children of soldiers killed in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.