The 10th Mountain Division Foundation is proud to announce a new partnership with Mauri DiMeo and his organization Tactical Alpinism. Mauri is a 10th Mountain Division veteran, professional mountain guide, and leader in modern mountain education. In 2026, DiMeo will launch a groundbreaking mentorship initiative supported by a $10,000 Foundation grant, aimed at reconnecting Soldiers, veterans, and descendants with the mountain heritage that defines the 10th Mountain Division.
Who Is Mauri DiMeo?
Mauri DiMeo is an AMGA Ski Guide, IFMGA Aspirant Guide, Avalanche Course Instructor, and a veteran of the 10th Mountain Division. His mission is rooted in the belief that the 10th Mountain Division’s tradition of mountain expertise and mentorship continues to inspire service members today, offering valuable pathways for growth in both military and outdoor leadership. DiMeo highlights that, while the original 10th Mountain Division were surrounded by mountain professionals and thrived in challenging terrain, many modern Soldiers and veterans have limited access to the same professionals.
The Mentorship Initiative
With the Foundation’s support, DiMeo will lead the 10th Mountain Outdoor Program Modernization – Mentorship Initiative, a program designed to reduce financial and logistical barriers for active-duty Soldiers, veterans, and descendants pursuing professional guiding careers. The grant will fund certified-guide mentorship, land-use and permit fees, curriculum development, and logistical support—creating a modern pipeline for military mountain professionals.
Planned 2026 events include:
• Ice Mentorship – Silverton/Ouray, CO (2 January) – limited to 6 participants
• Spring Climbing Mentorship – Red Rocks, NV (April 1–5)
• Fall Climbing Mentorship – Shawangunks, NY (October 9–12)
These pre-scheduled training opportunities support up to 20 participants per event, with additional pop-up mentorship options available on request. All instruction will be delivered by AMGA/IFMGA-certified U.S. military veterans, ensuring continuity of the 10th Mountain legacy of expertise, readiness, and leadership.
Why This Partnership Matters
The Foundation’s mission—to honor and perpetuate the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division—aligns directly with DiMeo’s vision. This initiative fosters:
• Outdoor education rooted in heritage
• Career pathways in mountain guiding and avalanche education
• Improved mental health, physical readiness, and community reintegration
• A living link between historic and modern 10th Mountain Soldiers
By investing in this mentorship program, the Foundation strengthens its commitment to supporting Soldiers, families, veterans, and mission-based partners through funding, advocacy, collaboration, and communication—core pillars of its Identity Statement.
Looking Ahead
Through this partnership, the 10th Mountain Division Foundation and Mauri DiMeo are building a new generation of mountain leaders—honoring the past while preparing Soldiers and veterans for new opportunities in the outdoor and guiding professions. This initiative ensures that the spirit of the 10th—its resilience, innovation, and deep connection to the mountains—continues to thrive for decades to come.
To learn more or apply for mentorship through the grant, email Mauri at [email protected].
