Another Denali Expedition update direct from Mount McKinley via Team 2 Leader, CPT Matt Hickey, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division I often wonder what is would have been like on the initial expedition up the west buttress of McKinley: alone, quiet.... nothing but the unknown ahead, a strong desire to pioneer a new route to North Americas most iconic mountain. The tranquility offered by the mountain back then is a thing of days past. There must be 200 other people on Denali right now - some descending after unsuccessful summit bids. Others are descending with cold weather injuries after a perilous summit day. Still others are slowly slogging supplies upwards in order to properly posture themselves for their summit bid. And all these passing people make me wonder why my team - a team full of American soldiers is different from other teams: savvy, and confident. Were here as a team - a combination of individuals who bring unique skills and fulfill particular obligations to complete the mission. We are Soldiers - Arctic and mountain warriors. We have been sent to this mountain to demonstrate the unique attributes of a USARAK Soldiers - tough, determined, committed. We represent not only ourselves but the U.S. Army. Were here to validate the Armys Arctic training program, along with the Arctic equipment and clothing that Americas Arctic Warriors live and train with in the last frontier. Soldiers selected for this mission had no to little experience with Arctic operations. After four months of intensive training throughout Alaskas incredibly unique training areas, coupled with access to new and improved equipment, this team was ready for the mission - survive in one of the worlds harshest environments by using Army-issued training and equipment. And were doing just that! Were happy to be here... shivering. Were proud to be serving our country here inside its most beautiful national park. And were going to drive on until our mission is complete. Climb on! Arctic Tough!
Posted on: Wed, 04 Jun 2014 23:56:09 +0000
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