Soldier. Survivor. Spearhead.
Faith in Action
SAFE GROUND is the story of a soldier who returned to the weapon that nearly killed him, not to fight another war, but to create a path toward safety, recovery, and hope. Because every mine removed is another piece of ground returned to the people of Ukraine.
From the mountains of Afghanistan to the fields of Ukraine
The tour may be over, but the mission never ends.
Ryan Hendrickson’s journey through recovering from an IED led him back into the field, this time through a non-profit he founded called Tip of the Spear Landmine Removal.
Tip of the Spear Landmine Removal is raising money for our demining operations in Ukraine and other countries around the world.
The money raised goes towards CEIA Detectors, Landmine Removal equipment and operating costs. The more money we raise the more people we can help because no one should have to live in fear of their next step.
The money raised goes towards CEIA Detectors, Landmine Removal equipment and operating costs. The more money we raise the more people we can help because no one should have to live in fear of their next step.
Read the inspiring true story of a US Special Forces soldier who was medically retired after stepping on an IED, and his incredible return to active duty.
Sergeant First Class (SFC) Ryan Hendrickson is a brave, determined, and courageous soldier — a Green Beret clearing the way for his twelve-man team while conducting combat operations against the Taliban. As the “tip of the spear,” his role is to ensure the route taken by U.S. and Afghan troops are free of IEDs — improvised explosive devices. Many soldiers do not survive their last step; those who do often lose at least one limb.
While rescuing an Afghan soldier outside a mud-hut compound in 2010 — knowing that he was in “uncleared” territory — Ryan stepped on an IED with his right foot. The device exploded, leaving his foot dangling at the end of his leg.
About Ryan
Ryan Hendrickson is a Special Forces Engineer in the U.S. Army. Ryan transferred over to the Army in 2008 after completing enlistments in both the Navy and Air Force. Ryan has many military deployments including Iraq, Afghanistan, and several South and Central American countries. Ryan’s decorations include the Silver Star, four Bronze Stars, a Purple Heart, and an Army Commendation Medal with Valor. When not abroad, he calls Florida home.
