Jeff Struecker Launches Campaign and 45-Mile Ultramarathon to
Fund Documentary Honoring Ranger Founder Gen. William O.
Darby
Former Army Ranger Jeff Struecker will run 45 miles through Fort Smith, Arkansas, Gen.
Darby’s hometown, on October 30, 2026, challenging supporters to help bring the story of
“Darby’s Rangers” to the screen.
Jeff Struecker, former U.S. Army Ranger, Black Hawk Down veteran, pastor, author, international speaker, and head of Jeff Struecker Ministries (JSM), has launched a campaign to raise $65,000 to fully fund a documentary film honoring Brigadier
General William O. Darby, founder of the U.S. Army Rangers. To drive support toward the goal,
Struecker will personally run a 45-mile ultramarathon through Fort Smith, Arkansas, the town
where Darby was born, on Oct. 30, 2026, inviting supporters nationwide to match the mileage
with a minimum gift of $45.
Darby, a native of Fort Smith, organized and trained the 1st, 3rd, and 4th Ranger Battalions
during World War II, which became known as “Darby’s Rangers.” He was killed in action in Italy
on April 30, 1945, at the age of 34, just days before the war in Europe ended, and was
posthumously promoted to brigadier general.
The documentary aims to preserve Darby’s leadership, wartime service, and Ranger legacy for
current and future generations. The film will explore the man behind the legend: his early years,
the formation of his character, the decisions he made in combat, and the influence he continues
to have on military leadership today.
“Every modern commando in the U.S. military can trace their history back to Darby,” Struecker
said. “He led 5,000 volunteers through a rigorous selection process, and the 500 who remained
became the U.S. Army’s 1st Ranger Battalion. Learning Darby’s story taught me the true value
of freedom.”
Struecker’s 45-mile run through Darby’s hometown on Oct. 30, 2026, is designed to put the
campaign’s theme into action: every mile represents a $45 gift, and organizers hope the
challenge will inspire supporters across the country to give at that level or beyond as the
campaign works toward its $65,000 goal. Members of the public can donate online by scanning
the QR code included in campaign materials or by visiting
https://www.jeffstrueckerministries.com/for-darby. Gifts are tax-deductible, and donors will
receive a contribution letter for tax purposes.
About Jeff Struecker
Jeff Struecker is a former U.S. Army Ranger who served in the Battle of Mogadishu, depicted in
Black Hawk Down, and later became an Army chaplain. Today, Major Struecker travels the
country as a speaker and pastor, drawing on his combat and ministry experience to help others
lead with courage and integrity. He leads Jeff Struecker Ministries, Inc. (JSM), a non-profit
organization that equips warriors, veterans, and believers to develop resilient faith and Christian
leadership.
