Congratulations Survival Grads
True North is really proud to welcome our newest survival graduates who completed our Basic Wilderness Survival (BWS) course this weekend. Some might think that this was some simple Spring camping trip, but, trust me, they’d be wrong … definitely wrong.
After all, Winter would better describe the conditions! This crew of four not only arrived bright and early at the trailhead, despite ample snow on the ground at Quebec Run Wild Area in the Laurel Highlands and the forecast upcoming overnight low temperature of 14 degrees, but they put their nervousness and physical discomfort aside to work hard all day, laughing and smiling throughout. Even when they emerged from their tents the next morning with frost on their hats (where it had actually hit 12 degrees overnight) they continued to amply demonstrate positive mental attitude — the hallmark of the survivor — at its finest.
Basic Wilderness Survival, March 28-29, 2015.
We enjoyed a wonderfully diverse group who took our BWS for a mix of reasons. Gordon and Weikuo, both originally from Taiwan but now studying and working near Pittsburgh, wanted to be learn more skills that they could apply to their outdoor activities, like orienteering and mountaineering. Steve travelled from outside Washington, DC to earn some of his final credits to complete his FAWM for the Wilderness Medical Society. Rachel, who is from Pittsburgh, took the course to be better prepared for the start of her hike next month along the 2,663 mile Pacific Crest Trail, which stretches along the American Pacific coast from Mexico to Canada. Despite their different backgrounds, they shared a common goal, a love of learning, and a desire to help one another.
Kris and I want to thank each of you for all of your hard work and sustained enthusiasm which helped to make this particular event definitely a memorable one! And the entire True North team thanks you for choosing us to help you to be better prepared for your future outdoor adventures.
Happy trails!
