Military Noob

PUPPYHEAD · 12-09-2011, 11:08

Greetings! Name is Zach from Fort Bragg, NC. Currently active duty military but leaving service in early February which creates a major pocket of opportunity for me to embark on an AT thru-hike! I'm finding myself in a mid-20s crisis because I have no clue what direction I want to move professionally after the Army. What better way to reflect and decompress than to spend 5 months in God's country? Also, attempting to organize a fundraising effort with the American Legion to raise some money for a veteran based charity with my hike.

I would definitely appreciate as much input and advice from the legends and experienced folks on this site about how to get started. I really wish that I could attend a hang so I could test out multiple models but there aren't any scheduled within weekend driving distance (I just saw that the RDU hang was cancelled). I'm leaning toward a WBBB and am not opposed to a DIY kit for an UQ and tarp. Heck, I'm not even sure if I need an UQ during this time of season.

Sorry this thread is so long! Humbled and grateful to be a member of your community! Look forward to interacting with you all!

Zach (puppyhead)

PUPPYHEAD · 12-09-2011, 11:10

BTW, I also wanted to mention how much I thoroughly enjoyed SHUG's informational videos. I've learned a wealth from them and always get a hearty laugh. Thanks for your efforts and I hope to share a laugh with you in person some day!

PuppyHead

**dragon360** · 12-09-2011, 11:35

Hello and Welcome to the Forums from Canada!

**dejoha** · 12-09-2011, 11:51

Airborn! Lots of great info on the forums. Welcome to bliss.

**raiffnuke** · 12-09-2011, 11:57

Welcome to HF from Mass.

**bigbamaguy** · 12-09-2011, 12:21

Puppyhead:
Welcome to HF from Bama and thank you for your service. If there is anything we can do for you please drop me a pm and I will do what I can to help with your hike and decompression time.

**iStCrow** · 12-09-2011, 12:29

I'm pretty sure you won't be disappointed with the WBBB. With so many options though, i know its hard to decide. i was one click away from a clark nx-150, but then i found shug!

**Rooster** · 12-09-2011, 12:32

Welcome to the fun house from Chester, SC.

**ShadowAlpha** · 12-09-2011, 12:33

"What better way to reflect and decompress than to spend 5 months in God's country?"

Hooah!

Welcome Puppyhead! as others said lots of great info here. I have a WBBB nice & easy for buggy seasons. more than likely need UQ or pad for anything under 65*

keep us posted on what you decide.

**Cali** · 12-09-2011, 13:19

Welcome to HF from a fellow veteran. Definitely take the time when you get out to decompress. I wish I would have hiked the AT when I retired, because I can't seem to find the time now that I am working.

I can't figure out why no one wants to give me 5-6 months off to go hike the AT.