From Uniform to Uncharted Heights: Arkansas Veteran Embarks on Kilimanjaro Climb to Inspire
For Brandon Fertig, a veteran from Lonoke, Arkansas, the call of the mountains isn't just about conquering physical peaks. His upcoming journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro represents a powerful message of resilience, potential, and unwavering purpose for fellow veterans navigating the challenging transition to civilian life.
Fertig's dedication to service began immediately after the 9/11 attacks, leading him to a 20-year career in the Air Force. However, upon retirement, he faced a common struggle among veterans: the feeling of being adrift and disconnected from the civilian world.
"You give so much of yourself to that existence, to that lifestyle," Fertig explains. "When you get out, you don’t know how to write a resume. You don’t know how to network. You don’t even know how to speak the language of corporate America."
Despite these initial hurdles, Fertig found his footing, attributing his successful transition to employers who recognize the invaluable work ethic instilled in veterans. He joined Phillips Healthcare as a project manager and later connected with MedTechVets, a non-profit organization that played a crucial role in his journey.
MedTechVets: Bridging the Gap for Veterans in the Medical Field
MedTechVets provides veterans with comprehensive tools and support needed to transition into the medical field. Their six-week program offers a stark contrast to the Department of Labor's three-day transition program, providing a more in-depth and tailored approach.
Fertig's commitment to his fellow veterans is fueled by a deep understanding of the challenges they face. He speaks poignantly about the loss of friends to suicide, emphasizing the importance of purpose and connection in preventing such tragedies. "I lost a couple of friends to suicide, and they were God-fearing people, they had everything you think they would be in place for that person to be successful, and then they take their life, and what crushes me is I feel like they may have lost their way in feeling that they didn’t have purpose," he shares.
Kilimanjaro: A Symbol of Limitless Potential
Battling anxiety and living with a 100% military disability stemming from war injuries, Fertig felt compelled to take on a significant challenge this year. He wanted to demonstrate to other veterans that their potential far outweighs any perceived limitations. That challenge is Mount Kilimanjaro, the world's fourth-tallest mountain.
To prepare for this ambitious climb, Fertig has logged over 350 miles on foot since the beginning of 2025, building the necessary endurance for the arduous journey.
To put the scale of the challenge into perspective, consider this:
- Pinnacle Mountain: 974 feet
- Mount Kilimanjaro: 19,341 feet
Kilimanjaro's peak is almost 20 times taller than Pinnacle Mountain. The climb is not a brief hike; it's a 40-mile trek over a week, where the air thins drastically near the summit. "Somebody told me it’s like breathing through a coffee straw. That’s what it feels like," Fertig explains, describing the challenges of navigating the high altitude.
Climbing for a Cause: Supporting MedTechVets
Fertig is personally funding the trip, but he is also leveraging this incredible feat to raise funds for MedTechVets. He understands the vital role this organization plays in empowering veterans. Health industry giants have pledged to match donations up to $250,000, but as of now, less than $2,000 has been raised. Fertig is determined to ensure this generous offer does not go to waste.
"When you support us, we replicate that effort into other veterans," Fertig emphasizes. "That’s what this is really about. It’s not quitting."
Fertig's journey began on August 2nd, with the goal of reaching the summit by August 14th. His climb is more than a personal accomplishment; it's a beacon of hope and a testament to the strength and resilience of the veteran community. He hopes his journey will inspire others to donate and support MedTechVets in their mission to empower veterans.
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