Mont Ripley Ski Patrol celebrates veterans and the 80th anniversary of the formation of a World War Two army ski division.
Tomorrow evening Mont Ripley will celebrate the 80th anniversary of the 10th Mountain Division, which took part in the Battle of Riva Ridge, a nighttime assault that was considered a turning point in the fight along the Italian front. The division was created by the United States War Department at the urge of Charles Minot Dole, the founder of the National Ski Patrol after he learned of two Finnish ski patrols that were able to effectively obstruct the soviet military during the Winter War. The 10th Mountain Division was made of the 85th, 86th, and 87th regimental divisions, and filled out by National Guard volunteers from many northern and mountainous states, including Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, and Montana.
During the 80th anniversary celebration, the Mont Ripley ski patrol will lead a hike from the chalet to the peak, and form a ski parade down the hill. After participants reach the bottom, organizers will gather people together for a group photo. Individuals will donate five dollars to the event that will benefit the 10th Mountian Foundation and Mont Ripley Ski Patrol. All participants will need a Mont Ripley ski pass to join. Participants will meet at the Mont Ripley Chalet at 6:45 pm. The hike will begin at 7 pm.
