MIDN 1/C Luke Finney, MIDN 1/C Steve Link, MIDN 2/C Blaine Tonking, MIDN 2/C Garrett Griffen, and MIDN 3/C John McDonough will be competing in the 2010 Arrowhead 135 Ultramarathon held this February. Each competitor is given 60 hours to traverse 135 miles by foot, pulling a sled containing all necessary gear, food, and clothing. The Arrowhead 135 is held on the Arrowhead Trail bordering northern Minnesota and Ontario where temperatures can average -20 to -40 degrees Fahrenheit and serves as a true test of character and moral, mental, and physical fortitude.

            Our reason and ultimate goal for running this race is to collectively raise $30,000 in honor of fallen warriors through the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. After raising over $15,000 for the SOWF with the 2009 Arrowhead, we believe that we can set the bar even higher. The SOWF provides free scholarship grants, financial aid, and educational counseling to the children of Special Operations personnel of all services who have been killed in an operational mission or training. Additionally, the SOWF assists wounded warriors through their in house program by sending them $2,000 checks via overnight mail to help their families get to their bedsides. It was one of the most amazing experiences of our lives to see the networking and generosity of family, friends, and even complete strangers, all working hard to support our cause. We know this year will be no different. Offering assistance to the families through donations will help support the children and families of these true American heroes and honor the sacrifices they have made for every one of us.

            For donations, please visit www.firstgiving.com/arrowhead135. Donating through this site is simple, fast, and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to make a contribution to our fundraising efforts. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!