THIS MONTH’S VOLUNTEER: Chris Rigg

BIG SKY BRAVERY WOULDN'T BE WHAT IT IS TODAY WITHOUT THE HARD WORK AND DEDICATION OF OUR VOLUNTEERS. TO CELEBRATE THEIR GENEROSITY & INTRODUCE YOU TO SOME INCREDIBLE INDIVIDUALS, WE INVITE YOU TO READ OUR MONTHLY VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT!

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN VOLUNTEERING FOR BIG SKY BRAVERY

This winter will be my third Task Force. I have been volunteering with Big Sky Bravery since December 2022.

WHY DO YOU VOLUNTEER FOR BIG SKY BRAVERY?

I am extremely blessed and grateful for all the freedoms we cherish as Americans. We owe our thanks to the men and women who serve to protect those freedoms. Giving even a little back to them makes me feel like we are in this together. It is an honor to have the opportunity to spend time with these heroes.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST IMPACTFUL MOMENT FOR YOU SINCE BEING INVOLVED WITH BIG SKY BRAVERY?

Each Task Force has had a significant impact in its own way, but a common theme is how quickly we bond with one another. On the surface, civilian life and the lives of active duty Special Operations Forces appear worlds apart, and for the most part, this is true. However, everyone faces challenges in their lives, whether in their careers or within their families. Sitting around the fire after a challenging day of skiing, it becomes clear that we share much in common as fathers, sons, and husbands. Seeing those who have sacrificed so much for our country take the time to decompress and enjoy themselves remains the most impactful experience for me year after year.

HOW DOES OUR MOTTO “GIVE MORE THAN YOU TAKE” APPLY TO YOUR LIFE?

Those are truly words to live by. Whether in your relationships, career, or how you treat people in your community, you should always strive to "give more than you take." I try to apply this principle in my daily life by seeking out opportunities to help others, whether it’s through volunteering as a youth basketball coach, lending a listening ear, or simply offering kindness in everyday interactions. I believe that small gestures like these can create a ripple effect of positivity that might have a profound impact on someone.

WHAT DO YOU NO LONGER TAKE FOR GRANTED AFTER SPENDING TIME WITH THE SOF COMMUNITY WE SERVE?

My perception of active duty SOF was primarily shaped by their portrayal in Hollywood. I imagined fearless, macho individuals covered in tattoos and muscles. However, after spending time with them, I discovered that while they are indeed extremely brave and obviously fit, they are also incredibly thoughtful, kind, well-read, and intelligent. They are, without a doubt, our best and brightest and I am so grateful for them.

WHAT JOB TITLE DO YOU HOLD OUTSIDE OF BEING A BIG SKY BRAVERY VOLUNTEER?

I am the Vice President of Software Engineering at Optica Technologies, Inc.  

FINISH THIS SENTENCE, “WHEN I’M NOT VOLUNTEERING WITH BSB, YOU’LL FIND ME…”

I probably have too many hobbies to list, but depending on the season, I love playing golf with my friends, skiing with my daughters, and spending time outdoors hunting and fishing. I've been married to the love of my life for almost 25 years and I spend an inordinate amount of time driving my kids and their friends to basketball and volleyball practices (which I secretly love). One little-known fact about me is that I've spent almost 20 years practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which is one of my great passions. I am a classic jack of all trades and master of none!