A Walk across the Nation

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Anthony J. Hyatt
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Taking a trip from New York to California by car can take roughly more than 39 hours, if you drive without stopping. Try traveling that distance on foot can take several months.

Twenty-four-year-old Mark Klodzinski is currently on a mission to complete this nearly 4,500-mile task in an effort to raise awareness for troops returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and to raise funds for the Warrior's Wish Foundation.

"I also want to inspire others to think big and to do something great with their lives," said Mark.

Mark's trip began March 16, 2010 from Ellicottville, N.Y. Averaging 20 to 25 miles per day, Mark arrived at Tyndall June 25.

"The coolest part so far has been the people I have met on my trip," he said. "Everyone has been very supportive with offering lunch, dinner, water or a place to stay for the night."

His estimated date of arrival in San Diego is Dec. 10, 2010.

Inspired by the stories in "A Walk Across America," written by Peter Jenkins, Mark began training for his walk after Veteran's Day in 2009.

On his journey, Mark has been equipped with his Global Positioning System phone and book bag. His 45-pound bag carries his laptop, voice recorder, three I-Pods, compass, clothing, first aid kit, high-definition camcorder, matches, a Gerber multi-tool, a tent and some water.

During his travels, if he's not staying a night at a motel, a Veterans of Foreign Wars post, or the house of a host, he pitches his tent in the woods.

In addition to the book and all the veterans, Mark is doing this for his two brothers Erik, 30, and Adam, 23. While Erik completed two tours in Iraq and has been out of the military for seven months, Adam has finished two tours in Afghanistan and remains in the service.

"Our veterans need every bit of respect America has to offer," he said. "This walk is just a small way of giving back and doing something except sitting around thinking about ways to help."

When Mark arrives at his final destination, he plans to go on a six-week road trip across the U.S. to thank everyone who has helped support him on his journey.

The Warrior's Wish Foundation is a New York-registered not-for-profit corporation granting life-long dreams and special wishes to veterans of the United States Armed Forces. Headquartered in Machias, N.Y., WWF depends on the vast network of 35,000,000 veterans and Veterans' Service Organizations and the generosity of patriotic individuals to provide the funds and resources required to accomplish its mission to "Make It Happen," and grant the wishes of sick or dying veterans.

For more information on Mark's journey, visit www.patriotwalkusa.org.