Two Extraordinary Sportsmen Honored by SCI

Two outstanding sportsmen will be recognized, by the Safari Club International Foundation, with the 2014 Pathfinder Award for their outstanding achievements and support of our hunting heritage. Tommy Clack and Brian Gilba will be presented with the award at SCI’s Annual Hunters’ Convention in February.

Joseph Hosmer, President, Safari Club International (SCI) Foundation, is pleased to announce 2014 Pathfinder Award recipients Tommy Clack and Brian Gliba.  Tommy and Brian will be recognized at SCI’s 43rd Annual Hunters’ Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada on February 6, 2015.

“It is so important that extraordinary sportsmen like Tommy and Brian are recognized for their outstanding achievements and continued support of our hunting heritage,” said Joe Hosmer, SCI Foundation President.

Tommy Clack, from Mansfield, Georgia, attained the rank of Captain in the Army.  During his tour in Vietnam in 1969, a rocket propelled grenade explosion caused him to lose three limbs, among other injuries. Not to be deterred by his injury, and over 65 surgeries, Tommy was determined to be independent.  He has become an inspiration to others.  He has written and published more than 500 guest columns and has traveled as a national speaker publicly supporting hunters’ rights and the second amendment. He has given over 100 speeches each year in all 50 states and in foreign countries.  Tommy shoots, hunts, and fishes year-round and reads constantly to stay educated and current in military history and data.

Brian Gliba was born in Maple Heights, Ohio and currently resides in Colorado Springs, Colorado.  Brian was injured while serving in Iraq in 2005 when an IED exploded in his HUMV, breaking his neck, causing spinal and brain damage, and other injuries.  Wanting to support fellow veterans, he created Project Wounded Ego, an organization that provides a “psychological photography service” for wounded veterans suffering from PTSD, where photography is used as a coping mechanism.  His best bud and soul mate is his 12 year old St. Bernard service dog, Zeus.

SCIF coordinates world-class hunting safaris for the annual Pathfinder Award recipients. This award is presented to individuals who are faced with overcoming a physical challenge or disability that is otherwise capable of interfering with a routine way through life; he or she must discover previously unexplored regions of self-esteem, self-worth, courage, persistence, and determination. The recipient is someone who has a “never quit” attitude and who is recognized as an ambassador for other “pathfinders” seeking leadership when faced with similar challenges.

If you are interested in attending the convention, please visit http://www.showsci.org/.

Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that funds and manages worldwide programs dedicated to wildlife conservation, outdoor education, and humanitarian services. Since 2000, SCIF has provided over $47 million to these causes around the world.  Visit www.safariclubfoundation.org for more information.

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