Resource Discovery: Warrior Expeditions

By: Jason Jowers, M.S. MFT

The healing power of nature cannot be understated. There are countless articles and blog posts out there that highlight the importance of being in nature for both physical and mental well-being. Also, there are many great organizations that are infusing exercise and the great outdoors for military service members, veterans, and military families.

One such organization is called Warrior Expeditions. Warrior Expeditions was founded in 2013 by Sean Gobin, a United States Marine Corps veteran. Sean served 12 years as an Infantry Rifleman and Armor Officer. In 2012, he returned home after combat deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan and set out to hike the full 2,185 miles of the Appalachian Trail. It was from this long distance hiking trip that Sean recognized how therapeutic these experiences can be and founded Warrior Expeditions.

These experiences outdoors can be very beneficial for everyone, but especially for military service members transitioning after their military experiences. With the effects of PTSD, being out in nature can quell some of the symptoms associated with it. To help veterans thrive on their hikes, Warrior Expeditions provides equipment and clothing, monthly stipends to resupply their items, and community support along the hiking routes. Also, there are several trails that can be traversed as well as two biking trails and one expedition to paddle down the Mississippi River.

To learn more this fantastic organization, follow the link to Warrior Expeditions here.