Dear John,
It is the most dangerous conservation job in the world. Virunga National Park Rangers risk their lives each day to protect the park, local residents, and wildlife, including the highly endangered mountain gorillas. Hundreds of Rangers have been killed defending the 2-million-acre park from poachers, militants, and environmental exploitation.
Because of the park’s enormous expanse and the limitations of foot patrols, the Virunga AirWing has become the best line of defense and the backbone of the park. Recently, six Virunga Park Rangers are training and becoming pilots for the AirWing. This news made its way to Congo’s President and the local population who have expressed their gratitude and pride.
LCA is proud to support the Virunga AirWing Program and marvels at the commitment of the new pilots and all the brave men and women who serve as Rangers. Without them, Virunga National Park would not exist.
