The local Alaska Dispatch News reported on US Army National Guard Soldier Richard Mitchell, who recently climbed Flattop Mountain carrying a wooden cross:

I just felt called to do it. It made me remember why I’m here on this earth, and I also wanted to do it for people out there suffering from depression and contemplating suicide. For me, religion has always helped…

His climb memorialized the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, he said, but he also carried the cross in memory of military veterans who committed suicide.

In an era in which it seems US troops are hiking, biking, running, and climbing for every cause you can think of, it is admirable to see a Soldier climb for the cause of Christ and his fellow man.

Also at the Stars and Stripes.

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