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National Ski Patrol (NSP) and the U.S. Army 10th Mountain Division recently joined forces for OPERATION MOUNTAIN LEGACY, a week-long event commemorating their historic bond and the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Riva Ridge, a pivotal victory during World War II. From Feb. 18-23, veterans, descendants, active-duty soldiers, and NSP leaders gathered at Camp Hale, Vail Mountain, Ski Cooper, and ski areas across the country to honor the division’s impact on both military mountaineering and the modern ski industry. 

The event highlighted the unique relationship between NSP and the 10th Mountain Division, which dates back to World War II. NSP played a crucial role in training soldiers for mountain warfare, helping them develop the skiing and climbing skills that would prove vital during battles in the rugged Apennine Mountains of Italy. Many of these veterans went on to shape the American ski industry, founding resorts, ski schools, and gear companies that continue to thrive today. 

Throughout the week, participants engaged in training, remembrance, and camaraderie, paying tribute to the resilience and pioneering spirit of the 10th Mountain Division. Key moments included: 

- The Hale to Vail Traverse, retracing the paths used by 10th Mountain troops during their training at Camp Hale. 

- Ski-In Daze at Ski Cooper, celebrating the division’s historic connection to the area. 

- The 90 Pound Rucksack Challenge, mirroring the physical demands faced by WWII soldiers carrying heavy loads through treacherous mountain terrain. 

- The Vail Torchlight Parade, an emotional tribute to the legacy and sacrifice of the 10th Mountain Division. 

Current 10th Mountain Division soldiers, who continue to train for combat in mountain environments, also participated in alpine and avalanche training at Camp Hale, reinforcing their connection to the warriors who came before them. As they honed their skills in the same snowy landscapes where their predecessors once trained, they carried forward the division’s proud tradition of perseverance, adaptability, and excellence in extreme conditions. 

OPERATION MOUNTAIN LEGACY was more than a commemoration—it was a reaffirmation of the unbreakable bond between the National Ski Patrol and the 10th Mountain Division, a testament to their shared history, and a celebration of the enduring impact of these mountain soldiers on both military and civilian life. 

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