On Saturday April 16 2011, the Walking With The Wounded North Pole Expedition Team skied into the record books, as they became the first team of unsupported war-wounded amputees to reach the Geographical North Pole.
Two members of the Everest Expedition team, Martin Hewitt and David Wiseman, visited James Jones & Sons Ltd to discuss the Everest trek and to learn more about industry in general, and the forestry and sawmill sector in particular.
Tom Bruce-Jones, Joint Managing Director of James Jones & Sons Ltd, commented:
“We were delighted to host the visit of these courageous injured servicemen and to provide an overview of our sawmill operations at Lockerbie, while answering questions about careers in the sector. We learned about the nature of the servicemen’s injuries, and Martin provided a real insight into his participation on the North Pole Expedition. The next expedition, a climb to the top of Everest, represents a massive new challenge and we are delighted to be sponsoring the team, as well as helping raise their profile with other companies within the sector, to maximise fundraising and awareness.”
Charity founder Ed Parker said, “Climbing Everest is one of the world’s great challenges. It has long been a symbol of overcoming insurmountable obstacles against all the odds - convictions that are central to Walking With The Wounded’s mission. These servicemen physically embody those qualities, having overcome the very gravest of injuries already. They are taking steps for a better future.”
The funds raised will finance new qualifications, courses and further education for those who are seriously injured and will enable the blind, the burn victims, the mentally injured, the amputees and all the other wounded, to rebuild their lives and to return to the work place. Finding a job with an income is vital for their security, and the security of their families.
Further details can be found at www.walkingwiththewounded.org.uk