Monarch Mountain welcomes ‘Wounded Warriors’ for day of skiing

Wednesday, twenty-three veterans from the Wounded Warrior Project were able to enjoy the slopes for free at Monarch Mountain. It’s all part of a program called “Soldier Ride”.

In years past, “Soldier Ride” has been primarily for mountain biking, but this was the first test run for the program on the ski slopes. For the veterans who came out, this means a lot.

“I’ve not only enjoyed being out here at this resort but to go ahead and do it with the guys and the gals I served with overseas and here in the stateside is an honor,” said Michael Salas, Army veteran and Colorado Springs firefighter.

“For me, it’s just bonding with other veterans. You don’t get to meet a bunch of them every day so it’s nice to meet new people and I had some friends in this group so it’s fun to ski with them,” said Army veteran Steve Salinas.

Thursday the group will have their second day of lessons. Thursday is also Military Appreciation Day at Monarch Mountain.

They are offering $35 lift tickets and free lesson clinics from 10 A.M. to 12 P.M. for veterans.