Cops on Top is excited to announce that after enduring extremely dangerous weather conditions on Aconcagua, the team has safely descended to Base Camp at 14,000 feet. The team faced very difficult circumstances at the 19,100 foot Camp II and even worse conditions during Sunday's summit attempt. Firefighter Steve Janke was able to reach the summit yesterday after perserving late into the afternoon and descending to Camp II in the dark.
We have been very worried about the team's safety and well-being in the extreme conditions at the summit and Camp II. Communications with the team were, and continue to be, very limited during the storm. The weather reports called for sustained 50 MPH winds today and the high winds extending through the rest of the week.
It is with pride and gratitude that we report that the team has arrived at Plaza Argentina and all are safe and healthy. A hearty THANKS! goes out to all who were praying for the team's safety as well as those buoying up the team from afar.
There has been much human toil and sacrifice for the team to have placed a climber on the summit under such dangerous circumstances. Please take a moment to reflect upon the team's sole purpose: that the memory of Sergeant Stephen Liczbinski would continue to be held in highest honor among our nation's heroes.
May God bless and be with his family, his friends, and his co-workers. May his memory burn brightly in the hearts of all he served in the city of Philadelphia. May he rest in peace in the loving arms of a grateful God. May we continue to honor his name and his sacrifice through exemplary service to the citizens of this nation. May our team members return to their families in safety.
May we NEVER forget!
When can their glory fade? -- Lord Alfred Tennyson
Keith McPheeters