As both a veteran and a grateful traveler, I’ve learned that the most meaningful journeys aren’t measured solely by the number of miles traveled, but by the purpose they carry and the people who walk alongside you. My recent trip to Scotland reminded me of this truth in profound ways.
I had the honor of traveling there as one of 64 active-duty members and veterans invited by the Robert Irvine Foundation. The foundation, created by celebrity chef and longtime military supporter Chef Robert Irvine, is dedicated to improving the lives of service members, first responders, and their families. This November, as we mark Veterans Day, the Marine Corps Birthday, and Thanksgiving, I can’t think of a more fitting time to reflect on the gratitude I feel for their support—and for the unforgettable experience of Scotland’s Cateran Yomp.
The Yomp, organized by the Army Benevolent Fund, is no ordinary hike. It challenges participants to trek as far as 54 miles across the Scottish Highlands within 24 hours. The trail pushes your body and spirit to their limits, winding through hills, valleys, woodlands, and wide-open landscapes that make you both marvel at the earth’s beauty and battle its demands. With distances of 22, 37, or 54 miles, it’s an endurance test that few forget.
What stays with me even more, though, are the people. Veterans, active-duty members, EOD specialists (the brave volunteers tasked with defusing explosive devices), Purple Heart recipients, and allies from around the world—all walking shoulder to shoulder. Their presence turned the grueling challenge of the Yomp into something extraordinary.
One of my most humbling moments came when I hiked several miles with a team of EOD soldiers. Their mission in service is among the most dangerous in the military. These men and women willingly step forward to confront hidden threats so others may live. Walking beside them on the rolling Scottish hills was a privilege. With every story they shared about their service, relocations, and family lives, I gained not just admiration, but a deeper appreciation for their sacrifice.
Their courage also stirred memories of loved ones I’ve lost. A Marine friend from high school died in Iraq. Walking now alongside those who make it their mission to disarm such devices, understanding what’s truly at stake, left me speechless with gratitude. Every step felt like a tribute—to him, to those we’ve lost, and to those who still serve.
The Yomp also introduced me to decorated veterans recruited to the foundation by Chef Irvine himself: men such as Michael Schlitz, David Reid, Charlie Williams, and Rob Yarnell. These Purple Heart recipients have endured the scars of combat yet continue to give back by uplifting others. Their resilience reminded me what it means not only to survive hardship but to transform it into service.
Beyond the sheer physical test, walking in Scotland opened a quiet space for reflection. The landscape of the Highlands—rolling green hills, forests thick with mist, and sudden bursts of sunlight through clouds—brought my soul into peace in a way I hadn’t expected. At moments I walked in silence, letting every sense awaken. I felt present, untethered, connected both to nature and to those around me. The conversations with strangers—Royal Navy soldiers, American veterans, spouses, and supporters—turned quickly into bonds of trust and camaraderie. Strangers became friends, friends became teammates, and every one of us pushed forward motivated by each other.
I carried away from Scotland not just sore muscles and memories, but lessons I treasure. Gratitude is easier when challenges strip away the distractions of daily life. Purpose feels clearer when shared with others walking beside you. The strength to keep going, whether in miles or in life, comes as much from community as it does from within.
This November, as we pause to honor veterans and reflect on the meaning of service, I think back to those miles in Scotland. Every step of the Yomp was physically tough, but every moment was steeped in thankfulness—for my own journey, for the brothers and sisters I walked beside, and for the reminder that resilience, purpose, and gratitude carry us further than we ever expect.
May we carry that spirit—of Scotland, of service, of thanks—with us in every journey, great or small.
Gratitude is easier when challenges strip away the distractions of daily life. Purpose feels clearer when shared with others walking beside you.