There is an old question, why climb a mountain? The answer has typically been, “because it is there.” But for the Wounded Warriors Project climbing a mountain will mean so much more. Having served in uniform for our country, it is our military veterans that our warriors, our heroes.
And to show their appreciation for what the soldiers have done, former NFL players Ken Huff and Joe Demielleure will join several wounded warriors and head to Africa to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro as part of a 10-day expedition called the Boots and Cleats on the Summit Experience. From New York City to Tanzania, Africa, the group will take part in a seven-day climb of Africa’s highest peak. This professionally-guided trek approaches Kilimanjaro from the south along the Machame Route, through dense tropical rainforest all the way up to the mighty snow-capped summit at 19,341ft for simply breathtaking views from the roof of Africa.
“Boots and Cleats on the Summit” is proud to be a sanctioned athletic event of the Wounded Warriors Project. In keeping with the mission of the Wounded Warriors Project we believe this endeavor will help address the mental, physical and spiritual needs of Wounded Warriors.
Our goals are to provide the following:
- Provide a special experience (climbing Mt Kilimanjaro) for Wounded Warriors that may have a life altering impact.
- Continue to raise awareness of the good work of the Wounded Warriors Project.
- Raise funds for the Wounded Warriors Project via pledges & sponsorships.
The climb is projected for mid February 2011 as the weather is most ideal at this time of year. It is meant to be a testament to overcoming hardships, including the physical and emotional stress that the warriors have endured. So why are they going to climb a mountain? Because it is there. Now, that sounds like a pretty good reason to us.