#United States #Pensacola #Ryan Hendrickson #Safe Ground #Landmine Removal

A Green Beret's Humble Mission in Ukraine

The compelling documentary Safe Ground showcases the incredible journey of Ryan Hendrickson, a retired U.S. Army Green Beret. Now available for streaming on Prime Video, this emotionally powerful narration reveals not only the challenges of removing landmines in Ukraine but also the personal tales of courage and survival.

The film premiered on September 12, a significant date marking what Ryan calls his “Alive Day.” This day commemorates the anniversary of his brush with death when he stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED) while on a humanitarian rescue mission in Afghanistan. It was this traumatic experience that shifted his life’s path towards helping others plagued by the remnants of war.

“After stepping on that IED, I thought my story was over,” Ryan reflects in the documentary. “But in reality, it opened a new chapter for me, one that’s dedicated to saving lives.” Each landmine removed from Ukraine means a child can walk to school safely or a farmer can tend to their crops without fear.

Ryan runs Tip of the Spear Landmine Removal, an organization committed to clearing these dangerous remnants from the land. The work is both physically demanding and emotionally taxing, yet it offers an invaluable service to communities afraid to move forward. As Ryan emphasizes, “Every landmine we pull out represents a life that can go on.” The film captures the essence of this mission, offering viewers a window into the ongoing struggles faced by the Ukrainian people in war-torn areas.

Charlotte La Belle, the Global Head of Military Affairs at Amazon, speaks to the film's deeper implications, stating that the skills veterans learn often transition into humanitarian efforts. “This collaboration with Tip of the Spear embodies how the attributes developed during military service can aid in some of the most critical missions.” She adds, “Our veterans continue to embody resilience and service beyond their formal duty.”

The story is further amplified by Colby Barrett, a producer of Safe Ground, who underscores the dual purpose of Ryan’s mission. “Not only is Ryan saving lives in Ukraine, but he is also giving American veterans a renewed sense of purpose and mission.”

Safe Ground is not just about the removal of mines; it represents a profound narrative of service, loss, hope, and unity. By presenting a soldier's journey into the heart of danger, the film advocates for peace and safety in regions experiencing turmoil. Each mine cleared signifies a step towards a hopeful future for many families.

As the documentary frames it, Ryan's return to the weapon that once nearly took his life is poignant—this time, he embarks on a quest not to wage war but to reclaim safety for innocent lives. The film is part of a broader documentary series titled FAITH IN WAR, which seeks to portray personal stories from the ongoing conflict, highlighting acts of bravery under the direst circumstances.

If you'd like to witness an extraordinary story of perseverance and empathy, watch Safe Ground on Prime Video, where Ryan’s mission transforms narratives of despair into tales of hope.

The film is now streaming and available for all Prime members, and can also be rented or purchased for those looking to delve deeper into this relevant and poignant message.