New Mexico Airmen climb Wheeler Peak

  • Published
  • By Jeffrey Harris
  • 377th Force Support Squadron
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  A team of 18 Airmen representing Kirtland and Holloman Air Force Bases recently climbed Wheeler Peak as part of the 50 Summits Challenge. 

The 50 Summits Challenge launched in May with the goal of promoting camaraderie and personal resiliency among Airmen by encouraging teams to carry the Air Force flag to the highest point in all 50 states.

The approximately 12-mile round trip hike of Wheeler Peak offered the Airmen the  opportunity to demonstrate resiliency and determination. The hikers endured low temperatures, howling winds, and hail. By the time they returned to base camp, two inches of fresh snow had blanketed the ground.

"The weather brought some unanticipated challenges but it made summiting all the more rewarding", said 1st Lt. Eli Garduño of the Air Force Research Laboratory.  "I was glad to get along so well with the rest of the group, most of whom I had never met. It was motivating to be part of a larger effort, connecting in some way with Airmen around the country."

Capt. Dan Benefield of the Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center agreed.

"It was great to see how we came together as a group and made it to the top of New Mexico as an Air Force team, despite the long hike, freezing temperatures, gale force winds and hail storm. Mountaineering provides a huge sense of accomplishment when you reach the top and that's what we all felt when we finally made it," he said.

Beginning in 2005, a small group of US Air Force personnel undertook an independent project of climbing the Seven Summits, the highest peaks on each continent, to honor fallen comrades, raise money for military charities and promote a positive image of the Air Force. 

After a successful climb of Mt. Everest in May 2013, the team turned its focus to the 50 Summits as a way of engaging a wider group of Airmen. By encouraging groups of Airmen across the country to take on the challenge of climbing their state's high point, they hope to build stronger bonds between Airmen and foster resiliency, the ability to tackle tough challenges and the ability to bounce back from personal setbacks.

The Columbus Day weekend saw Air Force teams climb the high points in Minnesota, Kansas, North Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia.  Wheeler Peak is the eighth highest state high point.