THREE HIKES. TWO POLES.
SEVEN SUMMITS.
One veteran explorer’s
quest to complete what
no one ever has.
Service to the nation, service to self, service to others

THREE HIKES. TWO POLES.
SEVEN SUMMITS.
One veteran explorer’s
quest to complete what
no one ever has.
Service to the nation, service to self, service to others

PROJECT 327
Project 327 is American veteran, David Phillips’ attempt to be the first to complete the Grand Explorer’s Crown, as he’s named it — a blend of Reinhold Messner’s Explorer’s Grand Slam and the Triple Crown of Hiking.
This ambitious undertaking is the culmination of a lifetime of potent and soul-stirring experiences.
100% of proceeds go to
Disabled American Veterans.
Meet DAVID “GHOST” PHILLIPS
David has been planning, dreaming, and grinding for over a decade — channeling his enthusiasm for climbing, ultra-running, and the occasional creative pursuit.
Retired from the U.S. Navy with over 25 years of active service as a Master Chief Petty Officer, David’s latest mission is finding peace in motion and putting meaning to the miles — embarking on one hell of a challenge.
He currently lives in San Antonio, teaching Project Management and working toward his Doctorate in Physical Therapy. In his spare time, he enjoys painting and spending time with family.
His story is currently being documented in a forthcoming feature-length documentary.
THE EXPEDITION CONTINUES
THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL
Eastern US ✔ Jul 2023
THE CONTINENTAL
DIVIDE TRAIL
Central US · TBA
THE PACIFIC CREST TRAIL
Western US · SPRING 2026
THE NORTH POLE
Arctic Circle · TBA
THE SOUTH POLE
Antarctica · Winter 25
DENALI
Alaska ✔ Jun 2016
KILIMANJARO
Tanzania ✔ Jun 2017
ACONCAGUA
Argentina ✔ Jan 2021
CARSTENSZ
Indonesia ✔ Oct 2024
MT. EVEREST
Nepal ✔ May 2025
MT. VINSON
Antarctica · WINTER 25
MT. ELBRUS
Russia · TBA













HELP US SUPPORT VETERANS
100% of donations go directly to Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
Each year, DAV helps more than one million veterans, aiding everyone from those transitioning to civilian life to those requiring long-term care and support.
DAV helps over a million veterans and families each year with benefits from housing and finances to education and community support. For over a century, they’ve fought for fair benefits, especially for underserved and disabled veterans, and pushed policies to protect their rights. Backed by nearly a million members, DAV is there for veterans at every stage.
David and his wife, Karen have 45+ combined service throughout the Global War on Terror. Together they continue to support their brothers and sisters’ continued needs such as healthcare and employment.
Please consider supporting below, or giving directly to DAV.org.
SPONSOR PROJECT 327
We’re seeking aligned brand sponsors to support this historic mission — the first attempt to complete the Grand Explorer’s Crown.
Whether you're an outdoor brand, mission-driven company, creative partner, or values-aligned funder, we’re open to shaping a custom collaboration that supports both the journey and your goals.
As a sponsor, you’ll receive:
Brand visibility on gear, support vehicle on trail, digital media, and film documentation.
Access to storytelling assets from the expedition (photos, video, interviews).
Custom partnership options tailored to your goals (gear testing, field research, conservation tie-ins, veteran visibility, etc.).
Let’s collaborate:
Email David grandexplorerscrown@gmail.com or DM on Instagram.
SUMMIT · MT. EVEREST, NEPAL 2025
THANK YOU BLUE SUMMIT CONSULTING GROUP
THANK YOU
FOR SUPPORTING
Contribute a one-time or monthly donation.
100% of DONATIONs are DIRECTED
to Disabled American Veterans.
Shop 327 Merch
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