Mt Rainier climb 08

July 5-10, 2008

We are all incredibly excited as our team finalizes preparations for Camp Patriot's 2008 Mt. Rainier climb. Time is rapidly passing by and the team members are well into their training regimens in anticipation of our July 5th arrival in the Pacific N.W. It looks as though we will once again be graced with an amazing group of individuals climbing with us. Our American heroes on this summer's trip include; Ryan Job, Chad Jukes, and Joey Martinez. Each of their bios are attached below and each of these gentlemen carry with them a remarkable story of commitment, sacrifice, and true patriotism.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with Mt. Rainier and Camp Patriot's successes on Rainier last year, please take the time to read a wonderful recount by Mike Perry, http://www.backpacker.com/shock_and_awe/articles/12358 .  We look forward for this year's climb to be well documented also, as Alex Quade from CNN will be a climbing member of our team, along with a video crew from Camo-Up Outdoors. Also joining us will be Keni Thomas, famous country western musician, former Army Ranger and recipient of the Bronze Star in Somalia. You may view his website at www.myspace.com/kenithomas .

But more importantly, on to the stories of who really matters most in all of Camp Patriot's ongoing adventures - our American Disabled Veteran:

 Ryan Job

(Ret) Special Operator 2nd Class, Ryan Job is 27 years old and was born and raised in Washington State. Ryan graduated from Issaquah High School in 1999 and attended the University of Washington for 3 years before enlisting in the Navy in 2002. After completing the Navy's elite BUD/S training in 2004, Ryan was then assigned to SEAL Team 3.  His team was deployed to Iraq in 2006, and while on a roof top patrol in Ramadi, Ryan was shot by a sniper through the eye on 2 August '06. Retired from active duty last year, Ryan now lives in Scottsdale with his wife Kelly. Both Ryan and Kelly are full time students. Ryan recently got a guide dog in January, a 2 year old Black Lab named Trey. Ryan enjoys spending time with Kelly, exercising, playing with Trey, and looking forward to the challenge of climbing Mt. Rainier.

Chad Jukes 

Chad is a 24 year old Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves. Chad was injured in December of 2006 when his Light Medium Tactical Vehicle struck an anti-tank mine while running security for a convoy in Iraq. The explosion shattered Chad's heel bone and broke his femur. After months of rehab, Chad agreed that amputation of his foot was the best option. Since receiving his first prosthesis in May of 2007, Chad has embraced an aggressive outdoor lifestyle including; rock and ice climbing, water sports, snow sports, a 150 mile charity ride in Texas, the Army 10 miler, and many other ambitious endeavors. Chad lives in San Antonio, Texas, and is an athlete for Paradox Sports and is also on the National Ability Centers cross country ski team. Chad is definitely looking forward to his next challenge - climbing Mt. Rainier.

Jose Martinez III

At 25 years old, Marine Corps Sgt. Jose (Joey) Martinez has lived a life in the military. Born at Camp Pendleton, California, Joey continued on as a Navy "brat" graduating from high school in Sicily, Italy. After 2 years of attending Texas A&M University, Joey shipped out in February of 2002 to San Diego and began basic training in the Marine Corps. Becoming one of the proud and few, Joey moved on to Marine Special Forces training, achieving the elite title of a Reconnaissance Marine. Deploying to Iraq in 2006, Joey and his sniper team were on patrol in the Al'Anbar province when Joey was wounded by an IED detonation.  Joey lost his eyesight in the resulting injuries, and after multiple surgeries, has minimal function of only one eye. In his recovery, Joey has since been surfing, snowboarding, and is excited with the prospect of summiting Mt. Rainier.

We hope to post an update of our climb, once we are in Ashford, WA on the 6th of July, before we jump on to the Mountain for our expedition.

This year's climb, and all of Camp Patriot's efforts in support of our disabled Veteran's, would not be possible without the kind generosity of our patriotic citizens and companies like: Mike Perry of Sneezingcow.com; Gabe Rogel of Rogel Photo; Beth Wolfe of Wolf Events NW; Litho Flexo Grafics, Inc.; Sitka Gear; Rainier Mountaineering Inc.; Leki; Mystery Ranch; Blue Bunny; International Mountain Guides; Far West Log & Timber; Sportsman's Warehouse; Native Eyewear; Sun West Sportswear; Go Pro;  and The Seattle Sea Hawks.

Thanks to all, and wish our heroes luck on their "Quest for the Summit".

Take care-
Curtis Fawley
Head Guide