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Welcome to our survival training program set against the rugged beauty of Montana. Our experienced professionals are here to equip you with essential skills for thriving in the wild. Join us for hands-on lessons in shelter building, foraging, signaling, and knot tying, all while immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the region. Embrace the adventure and learn to conquer the wilderness with confidence!

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Click the button Below if you are ready to join us in the Montana wilderness.  Tickets are $3000 per person and will be available May 9th, 2025 starting at 5:00pm MST.

OUR INSTRUCTORS

We have compiled an exceptional list of instructors for this adventure. Laura Zera has been immersed in this lifestyle for decades and is well-known from her numerous appearances on various survival shows, podcasts, and more. Additionally, we are proud to feature a SERE (Survive, Escape, Resist, Evade) trainer, Marine Scout Snipers, Marine Mountain Survival Instructors, medical experts, and combat veterans.

Laura Zerra cooking fresh trout in the wilderness.  using sticks for tongs, she is preparing to pick up a piece of trout to eat.  she looks happy
Laura Zerra eating food found in the wilderness

Featuring LAURA ZERRA

Learning how to thrive in the wilderness with Laura Zerra, one of the top survivalists in the world, is an enlightening experience. She is a wealth of knowledge about making the most of what nature provides. With her guidance, you’ll gain confidence in recognizing what nature has to offer, transforming your relationship with the environment. This journey not only equips you with vital survival skills but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural world around you.

Other Instructors

Our instructors for this course bring a wealth of experience from diverse military backgrounds that are essential for wilderness survival. With expertise as Marine mountain survival instructors, Marine Scout Snipers, medical experts, and other combat veterans, they are uniquely equipped to teach you crucial skills. Join us and learn from the best to prepare for any outdoor challenge.

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cooking fresh trout on a rock next to a campfire.  You can see green folage, campfire smoke, cooked trout, and a camping cup.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The list below is not exhaustive, but it will provide you with a clear idea of what our experienced instructors will cover during the class.

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CORE SURVIVAL SKILLS

Fire Craft – Friction fire, flint & steel, and modern methods
Shelter Building – Setups for various environments
Water Procurement & Purification – Finding, filtering, and purifying water
Food Procurement – Edible plants, trapping, and small game processing
Signaling & Rescue – Signal fires, mirrors, ground-to-air communication
Monsters Are Real – Food storage, predator awareness, and defense

TACTICAL & WILDERNESS
SKILLS

Land Navigation & Orienteering – Map reading & compass use

Evasion & Camouflage – Blending into the environment 
Trapping & Primitive Hunting Techniques – Traps & snares
Tracking & Counter-Tracking – Reading and covering animal/human tracks
Self-Defense & Improvised Weapons – Defensive tactics in the backcountry
Knife & Axe Handling – Care, usage, safety, & sharpening

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MINDSET

Survival Mindset & Mental Resilience – Managing fear, stress, and pressure

Combat Yoga – Enhancing flexibility and mobility for survival situations
Breathing & Meditation – Techniques to stay calm and focused under stress
Survival Case Studies – Real stories from cadre about survival situations

EMERGENCY & ADVANCED
SKILLS

Backcountry Trauma Medicine – Bleeding control & wound care
Cold Weather & Heat Survival – Hypothermia & heat stroke 
Emergency Improvisation & First Aid – Using gear in unconventional ways
Long-Term Survival Strategies – Thriving beyond the 72-hour mark
Bushcraft & Tool Making – Crafting tools and making cordage
Night Operations & Stealth Movement – Moving safely in low visibility

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Check out our frequently asked questions page to get more information
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What if you can't make this event, but you still want to help the Montana Vet Program?

We often hear this question, and we're here to clarify how you can contribute. While our opportunities are limited and primarily filled by veterans who have previously traveled with us, you can make a significant impact by sharing our mission with veterans in your network, engaging with us on social media, or becoming a monthly donor. Your support matters!

BACKCOUNTRY IMMERSION SPONSORS

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Alpen Fuel Logo
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CONTACT US

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P.O. BOX 1072
Great Falls, MT, 59403
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CONSIDER A MONTHLY DONATION

WE WILL BE IN TOUCH

©2025 by Montana Vet Program

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