In an exciting new chapter, U.S. Ski & Snowboard has officially announced the U.S. Army as its armed forces partner, honoring the remarkable legacy of the 10th Mountain Division—a key player in the formation of America's modern ski and snowboard industry. This marks the first armed forces partnership for U.S. Ski & Snowboard and a momentous step to highlight a profound, shared history.
A Legacy Forged in Valor
The 10th Mountain Division, renowned for its role in mountain warfare during World War II, achieved a pivotal victory at Italy's Riva Ridge, significantly altering the course of the war. Many soldiers from this distinguished division returned home after the war, taking their skills to the slopes. They established ski resorts and schools, laying the groundwork for the American ski industry and helping to popularize the sport nationwide.
“Our partnership with the U.S. Army has been a long time coming,” said Sophie Goldschmidt, President and CEO of U.S. Ski & Snowboard. “It began during a training camp in Portillo, Chile, where the 10th Mountain Division and our women’s alpine team trained together. This collaboration will showcase the invaluable history of the 10th Mountain Division and its contributions to skiing and snowboarding in the U.S., underlining a genuine connection that has shaped the resorts we cherish today.”
Celebrating Ski Culture and Heroism
Brig. Gen. Matthew W. Braman, Army Chief Marketing Officer and former Deputy Commanding General for the 10th Mountain Division, emphasized the significance of this partnership. “Many Americans may not realize that their favorite winter sports have deep roots in the U.S. Army," he explained. "We proudly partner with U.S. Ski & Snowboard to highlight the achievements of the 10th Mountain Division, which has seen the development of Olympic athletes and a deep cultural impact on recreational skiing.”
A New Era for Athletes
As part of this partnership, U.S. Ski & Snowboard athletes will wear an Army/10th Mountain Division patch on their team outerwear, symbolizing their unity and shared mission. Additionally, the U.S. Army/10th Mountain Division will contribute to the U.S. Ski & Snowboard athlete influencer program, bringing the legacy of alpine history front and center. Look out for their presence at upcoming events, such as the Stifel Copper Cup presented by United from Nov. 27-30 and the Stifel Lake Placid Finals, set for March 20-22.
This partnership kicks off immediately, with the Army's investment aimed at bolstering U.S. Ski & Snowboard athletes as they prepare for the upcoming 2025-26 season and the Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games in Italy this February.
Together, U.S. Ski & Snowboard and the U.S. Army honor a legacy built on courage, resilience, and the enduring love for winter sports that unites us all.
