Former Marine and staff sergeant, Charlie Linville, is in Nepal, about to make his way to Tibet for his second attempt at climbing Mount Everest. Linville’s first attempt took place in April of last year; he was located at the base camp of Mt. Everest at 17,595 feet when the climb was canceled due to the avalanche that tragically killed 16 Sherpa guides.
Former Marines’s 2nd Attempt At The Climb
In 2011, Charlie Linville, explosive expert, was injured by an IED blast in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. While attempting to investigate the blast injuries of a colleague, Linville was hit by another IED and lost two fingers. He later had to have the lower portion of his leg amputated.
Linville, born in Boise, Idaho, is a 29-year-old husband and the father of two little girls. Referred to as “outgoing” and “unselfish,” Linville loves outdoor activities and enjoys golf and skiing. He was nominated for the National Fatherhood Award in 2013 and since his retirement from the Marines, he has been an active member of The Heroes Project, a non-profit organization that helps wounded soldiers.
Climbing with Special Equipment
Linville will be climbing the highest peak of the world (29,035 feet), with an 8-member group from The Heroes Project, along with the founder, Tim Medvetz. This time, he will begin at the Tibetan side of the mountain, rather than the Nepali side, which was his starting point during his initial attempt in 2014. To complete the journey, he will be using a specially designed foot made of metal that is outfitted with a climbing boot, as well as another one that has crampons, spike-like protrusions for climbing on ice and snow.
Charlie Linville’s Can-Do-Attitude
Charlie Linville hasn’t let his disability slow him down. In fact, he participated in a triathlon just three months after losing his leg. Working with The Heroes Project, he has also climbed other peaks and continues pursuing his love of golf and skiing.
The former marine states that bringing attention to The Heroes Project is only part of his reason for climbing Mount Everest. His main reason, he says, is to show other war veterans that anything is possible for them. It is just a matter of mindset and determination; with the right attitude, they can accomplish anything they set their minds to, despite war injuries.
Summiting a mountain is no easy feat, even for a former marine. It requires extreme dedication and determination, as depicted in this film:
