My name is Chris and I am a veteran snow-machiner
of the 2007 Serum Run. I work for the US military, and live in Germany.
I have served overseas for the last 12 years or so, but I like to
come back to the States to participate in the Serum Run. During
the Serum Run, I will also be providing the group with general advice
on how to avoid frostbite and generally how to stay warm in an extreme
environment. (Drink plenty of water. Sleep and eat enough. Dress
for comfort. Don't over-exert. Check skin every five minutes when
in doubt. Sounds easy doesn't it? We'll see.) I am a graduate (survivor)
of the US military's arctic survival school, so I know a few things
which could be helpful. I will also be bringing along a few of the
indestructable survival guides which are provided to combat aircrews
in their emergency ditch supplies, and I will be teaching some of
those survival skills to kids and adults on this Serum Run. We'll
see what it's like to try starting a fire by rubbing sticks at 40
below. I am also going to build and try out a few different styles
of emergency snowshoes made of tree branches and 550 parachute cord.
Also of interest: During this Serum Run, I will be wearing a fur
anorak and over-mittens which I have been sewing by hand for the
last few weeks. The outer shell is made from the pelt of a caribou
I shot out near Aniak a few years ago. The interior and ruffs are
a mix of different furs, with an integrated wind-layer at the core,
and plenty of cargo pockets. We'll see how well it functions. I
am also going to be paying closer attention during this Serum Run
to some of the local beadwork we see in the villages along the way,
and I will try my hand at adding some beadwork to my anorak. I can
be contacted at finbackb@hotmail.com. Cheers! |
