TF110 | Big Sky, MT
A NOTE FROM THE TASK FORCE DIRECTOR…
TF110 began, as always, with the gathering of strangers who quickly became brothers. Before we knew it, we found ourselves engaging in conversations that went beyond the surface. These moments of vulnerability (Trust) and shared understanding (Brotherhood) are the essence of what we strive for in each TF. This was day One! The week continued with Blue Bird Skiing, Deep laughs, Fly Fishing, Cold Plunging, and Lone Peak sunburn (De-Compression).
This group skied HARD, going from the first chair to the last chair every day. Reaching Lone Peak and enjoying Shedhorn Grill for lunch.
It was clear that each member of TF110 would leave with not just memories, but a renewed sense of purpose and focus. The laughter, the challenges overcome, and the quiet moments of reflection and have left a mark on all of us.
I’d like to publicly thank my fellow volunteers, without whom none of this wonderful week could have been possible. They, too, are amazing men, wonderful patriots, and friends I am proud to call my brothers.
Our gratitude and thanks to everyone involved in making Task Force 110 a reality.
God Bless,
Shane Gore
TFD 110
VOLUNTEERS TO THANK
Shane Gore [Task Force Director]
Matt Hoskins
Degan Barber
PATRIOTS TO THANK
David Shewmaker [Lodging]
Peak Skis [Skis]
East Slope Outfitters [Donated fly fishing gear]
Big Sky Natural Health [Discounted IV Therapy]
ANTHEM Snacks & Wild Society Coffee [Welcome bag donation items]
“Big Sky Bravery has created something that is truly unique and inspiring.
I had heard many great things before I arrived but still wasn’t prepared for the sheer perfection of it. From the moment we arrived, I felt like I was with Family and I was made to feel completely at home, relaxed and taken care of. The Volunteers were immediately likable and couldn’t have done more for us, making it clear they wanted our experience to surpass our expectations. The welcome package of gifts is superb and a really nice gesture. A seemingly endless supply of food and drink was provided throughout with requests having been previously sought and obtained, which was extremely thoughtful. When we arrived at the outstanding accommodation, the disbelief continued at the generosity afforded to us. The activities were briefed and executed really well and accommodated all abilities within the group. Lessons being provided was a gratefully received addition and meant we could all take part together by the second day, which might not have been the case without them.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I got out of the evening discussions. Frank, open, honest and deep conversations with such respectable people was enlightening and extremely rewarding. For me, one of the most impactful elements throughout was the respect and gratitude shown towards us, which was truly humbling and more than slightly ironic as it’s us who should be grateful!
Overall, the experience was holistically inspiring, life-changing and unforgettable.
To all the wonderful people who make Big Sky Bravery what it is, I can only say thank you. It would not be the same without the selfless commitment of so many, from the Founders, Donors, Community, and, of course, the Volunteers. You all “Give more than you take.” Long live The Family. Who Dares Wins.
-B.”
“We sometimes forget that there are true Americans who really care what we do on a day-to-day basis.
It can get lost in today’s 24-hour news world, when all you hear is negativity from both sides.
To have people take time out of their lives and busy family schedules and make us the center of attention was truly an honor and has recharged my soul.
Thank you for all you do for us.
-J.”
“Our chosen professions offer few opportunities to enjoy the benefits of community and connection outside the limitations of deployment and its unique stressors. BSB has the magic formula of bringing together souls cut from the same cloth for fellowship in the mountains and over a table with the singular goal of gaining by giving.
I was encouraged to commit to the process for maximum effect and that the week would go fast. Both were true and I was rewarded for my openness by order of magnitude with empathy and wisdom.
My week with BSB has strengthened my resolve in my "why" I serve, and revealed to me areas that require renewed attention, mostly in non-job affiliated relationships. Between my TFs volunteers and adventures in the Madison Mountain Range, I made six new friends and reconnected with an old one. I was reminded of the tangible results of giving of one's time and resources. Each act or gift is a piece of a machine that deliberately seeks to improve a person's life, with the inevitable result of impacting units and families. Each person in TF 110 gave to the group, and we left on Saturday better for it.
BSB was a profound experience, and I am motivated to protect my organization's relationship to it.
I see it as an effective way to strengthen participants and families from the unique stressors that come with our professions.
I appreciate the opportunity, and I'm grateful for the relationships.
Thank you, BSB.
-B.”
