Soldiers to the Summit at Snowbird Brings Together Wounded Warriors

Thanks to Snowbird for hosting this wonderful event for wounded military! This February 27- March 1, 15 wounded warriors will gather at Snowbird Resort for the Soldiers to the Summit at Snowbird event that includes skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. From non-profit World T.E.A.M. Sports, the event is the follow-up to the organization’s October 2010 expedition to Nepal’s Himalayan Mountains. This month’s event provides an opportunity for disabled veterans to experience winter sports, to connect with other veterans, and to enjoy life.

The Snowbird event includes veterans like Marine William Beard of Vicksburg, Miss., who was severely injured in March 2008 when his Humvee was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade. The resulting explosion resulted in numerous injuries, including the loss of both index fingers. Amanda Brewer, a 21 year veteran from Cabot, Ark., was injured in the June 1996 terrorist attack on the Khobar Towers in Saudi Arabia. Despite numerous injuries, she remained in the Air Force for another 14 years, including tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Ed “Koz” Kozlowski from Land O Lakes, Fla. toured the world during his 24 years in the Air Force. Currently working with a defense contractor, Kozlowski suffers from combat-related PTSD. Charles Register of Santa Ana, Calif., joined the Navy in 1963. Stationed on various naval vessels, he served during the war in Vietnam. He reports that his disabilities “stem from Agent Orange exposure while on the base at DaNang.” He has had a kidney transplant, is legally blind, and is a below the knee amputee.

Sponsored by Snowbird Resort, the Cliff Lodge at Snowbird, Wasatch Adaptive Sports and American Airlines, the Soldiers to the Summit at Snowbird event will provide these American heroes with an opportunity to learn and experience winter sporting activities. For some of the veterans, it will be their first time on snow. For all participants, their days at Snowbird Resort will allow them to create new, positive relationships with other veterans through teamwork and cooperation.