TF112 | Big Sky, MT
A NOTE FROM THE TASK FORCE DIRECTOR…
To the entire Big Sky Bravery family,
This message comes to you with gratitude and reflection after an amazing week spent with the men of Task Force 112. The honor of being with these men, both military and volunteers, can’t be overstated. Their sacrifices for our nation are great, and the opportunity to share in their company has been nothing but a privilege.
The backdrop for our week was provided by both Big Sky Montana and Mother Nature, who gave us tons of new snow, setting the stage for the season's best skiing and snowmobiling conditions.
Our week kicked off at the YC with three days of skiing and snowboarding. We carved through the resort's world class slopes, but beyond the adrenaline rushes, those days were filled with smiles, laughter, personal growth, and a few spills in the powder that literally grounded us. These moments weren't only about mastering the slopes; they were about strengthening the ties that bind us, creating memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
Our day with Canyon Adventures took our experience to a whole new level. The conditions couldn't have been better, with fresh snowfall adding to the landscape once again. The day started with a challenge, as low visibility and heavy snow tested us, but the skies soon cleared up and gave us an unforgettable view of Montana’s backcountry. The feeling of carving through untouched snow in the second play area was humbling and unforgettable. A shoutout to our guides, Mark and Trea, for their support and for rescuing our sleds more times than we can count!
Each evening was spent in each other’s company, enjoying amazing meals and great conversation. It was during these moments that we grew as men, sharing our life experiences and creating deeper connections. We left each night with new insights on becoming the men we aspire to be, recognizing our true worth both personally and professionally. I know that I can speak for all of us in saying that we left each other better then when we were found.
To each of you who support Big Sky Bravery, know that your generosity is the foundation of these life-changing TFs. Your commitment allows us to honor and support our SOF in the best way--by providing them with a chance for rest, rejuvenation, and friendship. This past week has been a testament to the impact of your support, and for that, I am thankful. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of these brave men, reminding them that their sacrifices are recognized and appreciated. Thank you for being part of our BSB family and for all that you do to make weeks like this possible.
Tom Boyce
TF112 Director
VOLUNTEERS TO THANK
Tom Boyce [Task Force Director]
Chris Rigg
Travis Whitt
PATRIOTS TO THANK
Spanish Peaks Mountain Club [Lodging]
Canyon Adventures [Snowmobiles]
ANTHEM Snacks & Wild Society Coffee [Welcome bag donation items]
“My week with Big Sky Bravery provided an environment of challenge and acceptance that I didn’t know I needed. Surrounded by incredible volunteers and SOF colleagues, we bonded over shared experiences and thought-provoking, healing conversation.
This is an experience that every member of the SOF community needs.
Big Sky Bravery is a truly remarkable organization, with remarkable and genuine people at its core. Thank you for a great week, and new, lifelong friends.
-M.”
“This week was such a welcomed respite from my daily grind. The volunteers were excellent hosts and were so welcoming to all of us. Getting the chance to get away and connect with like minded dudes on a deeper level was a great opportunity to decompress and make some great friends who I know would be there for me if I needed it. Thanks to all of the amazing people that make this possible.
-S.”
“This past week at BSB has allowed me to express emotions that have been suppressed and ignored for decades.
The people, places, and venues set a comfortable place to heal and release stress that has built over years. It has been my absolute privilege to serve. I thank those who made this possible for me to attend. While I don't expect anything for my service, it has been a gracious and welcome gift. This week has changed my outlook on my day to day problems. Listening and discussing our common issues has given me tools to incorporate into my own family life. From my family to yours, thank you.
-B.”
“I am writing to thank you and your generous donors for the incredible experience you provided my mates and me last week.
The opportunity to ski at the Yellowstone Club was a once in a lifetime opportunity. The incredible powder, terrain and trees challenged me to grow as a skier. Snowmobiling with Canyon Adventures through chest-deep powder was amazing, and rivaled only by Ed’s generosity. Both the skiing and snowmobiling were not just exhilarating; they were transformative. These activities demanded a level of presence and focus that I hadn't felt in years outside of work.
I am particularly grateful for the comprehensive support Big Sky Bravery offered, covering our airfare, lodging, meals and even toiletries. This thoughtful provision ensured we could immerse ourselves fully in the experience without any concerns.
Beyond the thrill of the adventures, the trip offered something equally valuable – a sense of community.
Connecting with other special operations veterans and our incredible volunteers provided a forum for sharing our experiences and challenges. It was affirming to spend time with others who have faced similar struggles. We were able to find strength in each other during the week and will for years to come.
Due to my frequent and short-notice deployments, these past months have been challenging for my family and me. This respite allowed me to step away from my responsibilities and return home feeling refreshed and recharged, not just as a service-member, but as a father and husband.
The positive impact of this experience extends beyond me to my loved ones, bringing a renewed sense of energy and perspective to our lives. We truly feel appreciated.
Please extend my heartfelt thanks to all who made this possible. Your dedication to honoring and supporting veterans in such a meaningful way is truly unparalleled. I am profoundly grateful for the memories and the renewed sense of purpose I have gained, thanks to Big Sky Bravery.
Thanks,
-P.”
“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the extraordinary Task Force 112 experience organized by Big Sky Bravery from 11-16 February 2024 at the Yellowstone Club in Big Sky, Montana.
The experience was nothing short of transformative, and it truly has left an everlasting impact on my life.
From the moment I arrived, I was enveloped in the warmth and hospitality. The opportunity to ski, snowmobile, eat good food, and create new friendships in such breathtaking surroundings was truly a dream come true, and I am immensely grateful.
I want to extend a special thank you to the Big Sky Bravery founder Josh McCain, his team, and the incredible volunteers who made this retreat possible: Chris Rigg, Tom Boyce, and Travis Whitt. Their unwavering dedication, expertise in skiing/snowmobiling/snowboarding, and genuine kindness were instrumental in creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and support. Not only did they teach us valuable skills on the ski slopes, but they also inspired us to push beyond our limits and level up with newly acquired skills. Through their guidance and encouragement, I have leveled up my skiing ability and gained lifelong friendships that I will cherish forever. The question of the night holds a special place in my heart and I have gained so many lessons learned and a newfound ability to empathize and open up to talk about issues that I naturally do not express.
I did not realize the gravity of the discussions until before attending and I now understand the impact that I have seen in so many fellow Operators who have attended a BSB task force.
I am deeply grateful to the entire Big Sky Bravery team for their tireless efforts in orchestrating such a memorable experience for myself and other special operations members.
As I reflect on the memories gained and the bonds we formed this last week, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and appreciation for the patriots of Big Sky Bravery and the donors who give to make events like this happen. This week has recharged and reenergized my motivation to be a better man, worker, husband, father, and friend. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for providing SOF operators and veterans with this experience.
-B.”
