Duane "Tank" Schexnayder, a retired law enforcement officer and author of One Foot in Front of the Other, completed the entire 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine in 2019. His journey, which spanned 14 states over nearly five months, was both a physical and spiritual undertaking. After six months of mental and physical preparation—training along the Mississippi River levees—he began his northbound trek on March 11 and finished on August 1.The idea to hike the trail was first proposed by his brother-in-law in 2003. Initially skeptical, Shexnayder became increasingly drawn to the challenge, using it as a mental escape from the stresses of his 33-year law enforcement career. Upon retirement, with his children grown and a window of opportunity open, he committed to the journey.

The hike became deeply personal and spiritual. He carried the memory of loved ones, including his father, godfather, and two former administrative assistants, one of whom asked him to “carry her” on the trail. These emotional connections gave the hike profound meaning, especially during physically and mentally taxing moments.Shexnayder encountered wildlife, harsh weather, and long stretches of solitude, sometimes going days without seeing another person or having cell service. Despite the challenges, he found peace and forged lasting friendships with fellow hikers from around the world. The trail offered a stark contrast to modern life, and reintegrating into society afterward proved unexpectedly difficult.His trail name, “Tank,” a childhood nickname, became a symbol of strength and endurance. The journey was not just about the miles walked but about reflection, healing, and rediscovery. His story is a testament to resilience, the power of nature, and the human spirit’s capacity for transformation.