The Last Ridge: The Uphill Battles of the 10th Mountain Division

The Last Ridge tells an intriguing real-life story that combines elements of war, adventure, and socio-political history. The documentary film vividly recounts the heroic exploits of the 10th Mountain Division, a brigade of the U.S. Army trained to fight in mountainous and rugged terrains during World War II. Director Abbie Kealy weaves through the narrative threads of this unique band of soldiers, their daunting training, the character of their opponents, and the significant impact they had on the outcome of the war. The film aims to showcase the heroism, resilience, and unbending spirit of this overlooked group of soldiers with verve and insightful scrutiny.

As the title suggests, The Last Ridge predominantly revolves around uphill battles, both in literal and metaphorical terms. Besides facing some of the fiercest combat confrontations on steep slopes and snowy terrains, the 10th Mountain Division confronted multiple hurdles before they became an operational unit. The film delves into their extensive training at Camp Hale, situated in the extreme high-altitude terrains of the Colorado Rockies.

Their training was not limited to traditional infantry exercises but extended to skiing, rock climbing, and survival skills in hostile weather conditions. These parts of the film provide the viewers with a deep exposition into what it takes to be a Mountain Division soldier, offering a nuanced perspective on the intensity of their training and the physical and mental fortitude necessary for survival.

The film admiringly highlights that the 10th Mountain Division was largely constituted of volunteers, some of whom were professional skiers, climbers, and outdoorsmen. This mix of men forged in the unforgiving outdoors lent a distinctive character to the Division and made their bond stronger in the face of adversity. Interviews with remaining veterans give a closer, poignant look into the challenges, sacrifices, and the brotherhood that became an intrinsic part of their journey.

Another fascinating aspect of The Last Ridge is its exploration of the impact of this Division on the war's outcome. Despite their late entry into the war, the 10th Mountain Division played a decisive role, particularly in the Italian campaign where they fought entrenched German forces in extremely hostile terrains. By shedding light on these defining moments, the film brings forth the irreplaceable contribution and the decisive tactical advantage that these brave men brought against a formidable enemy.

The Last Ridge also gets political, offering a glimpse into the bureaucratic wrangling and challenges faced by the Division's proponents, particularly Charles Minot Dole. These sections provide a nuanced understanding of the socio-political landscape of that era, offering a well-rounded view of the whole ordeal.

The documentary meticulously traces how, despite their heroic contributions, the 10th Mountain Division’s story somehow slipped through the cracks of popular history. However, their legacy lives on, as many veterans went on to influence the development of recreational skiing and the establishment of ski resorts in America, leaving an indelible mark in an unexpected sphere of American life.

Using a mix of archival footage, reenactments, and conversations with experts and surviving members, the documentary offers an immersive viewing experience. It uses this mosaic of storytelling mechanisms to bring alive the nail-biting circumstances these men braved, the adversities they overcame, and the spirit of unity they developed while battling against all odds.

Among its many compelling facets, The Last Ridge pushes past being a mere war documentary. It essentially becomes a moving tribute to an extraordinary group of men who, when called for duty, sported their skis and boots, shouldered their rifles, and charted a course through history's most challenging terrains, leaving behind a legacy not of war, but of courage, innovation, and an unyielding spirit.

Whether you enjoy history, adventure, warfare, or simply compelling human stories, The Last Ridge promises to take you on a ride that is as riveting as it is inspiring. As it uncovers the lesser-known pages of World War II history, it leaves the viewers marveling at the audacity of these men and the sacrifices they made in the face of insurmountable odds.