Summit Initiative

We want to take a quick minute to talk about Memorial Day and what it represents. Today is a day for us to remember those Service Members who have courageously given their lives for the sake of freedom. Those sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, mothers and fathers who demonstrated the love of God so beautifully to us by giving their lives for us so we might live in the freedoms that we enjoy. They deserve every honor we can give them.

Memorial day started as a response to the 364,000 lives lost in the civil war. Since then...
- WWI 117,000 lives lost.
- WWII 405,000 lives lost
- Korean War 37,000 lives lost.
- Vietnam 58,000 lives lost.
Since 1991, close to 7,500 Americans died in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Since 2001, more than 140,000 American veterans have died by su***de. That’s more than Iraq, Afghanistan, Vietnam, and Korea combined… in less than 25 years. At Summit we strive to walk with veterans and Service Members as they experience hope, healing, and a mission.

Let’s all reflect today on the gifts we have as a result of the sacrifice of others. This is a day of remembrance for those we love who have made that sacrifice. For all of us this is a day to count our blessings from a God who sacrificed Himself for us and through that sacrifice provided us the ultimate freedom.

If you’re a veteran and are looking for community, reach out to us. We’re on a mission and would love for you to join us!

The training was definitely something I needed. The event made such a difference in my life and I would recommend Summit to everyone. Life changing experience.

- Soldier from Ft. Bragg

This is what meaningful community looks like!

Stories shared.
Burdens carried together.
Hope rediscovered.
Jesus Glorified.

Thankful for an incredible weekend. This was just the beginning for Summit San Antonio! Thanks to all the people who made it what it was.

Summit Initiative recently had the privilege of hosting a transformative workshop for U.S. Soldiers in South Korea! 🌏

This experience provided Soldiers with:
✅ Renewed spiritual connection and encouragement to strengthen their faith
✅ Practical tools for resilience and character growth
✅ Opportunities for shared vulnerability and community support
✅ A sense of hope and purpose during challenging times

One Soldier summed it up perfectly:
“During the Summit training, I gained several personal insights that will influence both my connection with God and my character moving forward. One of the strongest lessons I learned is the importance of humility and openness, recognizing that growth often comes from stepping outside my comfort zone and allowing myself to be challenged.”

Learn more about how Summit supports the military and veteran community: www.summitinitiative.org/military

We’re so grateful to have Kody on board with us. Please consider supporting him as he serves veterans and Service Members.

Summit Initiative - Give

Richard Bartnick grew up in the small farm town of Polo, Illinois, and joined the U.S. Army in 2017 when he was just 19 years old. He has served for eight years as an 11C Infantryman and most recently as a Section Leader in 1-325 AIR. Richard is now stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, awaiting the start of the Special Forces Qualification Course.

Throughout his service, Richard says the most meaningful part has been the community and lifelong friendships it has brought into his life. “Still hearing from friends I served with seven years ago and sharing old memories is something I cherish and hold onto,” he shares.

Richard was first introduced to Summit Initiative before it even had a name. During a training exercise at Camp Roberts, California, Chaplain Kody Witt invited him to a Bible study. “Summit showed me what true support and community look like. When one person struggles, everyone shows up.”

Today, Richard is focused on fitness, faith, and preparing for the next chapter of his Army career. His message to other veterans is simple:

“Find a good community. If you are surrounded by people who listen, care, and walk with you, you will find strength. I have seen lives change through Summit, and it all begins with courage and welcoming arms.”

A day to remember the brothers and sisters you walked with!

Thank you to all the veterans apart of our Summit Family!

Engage.
Experience.
Connect.
Summit Together.

Since 2020 we have had the honor and privilege to serve over 7,000 service members and veterans through My Story reatreats, Community Events, and through our many of small group communities.

Thank you for your service and thank you for allowing us to serve you!!! 🇺🇸

https://summitinitiative.org/military

To help us continue our service please donate to summitinitiative.org/give. We couldn’t do it without our network of supporters!

Summit Initiative - Veterans Day