TF124 | Spouses | Big Sky, MT
A note from the Task Force Director…
To those who genuinely care,
It has been an absolute honor to serve as a Task Force Director, especially for the Spouses we are privileged to uplift. This was my fifth time leading a Task Force, and each experience continues to be extraordinary and unique. I believe that those who most need these programs are the ones who find their way into them, and I genuinely feel that nothing about these moments is coincidental. The spouses, with their hearts of gold, are often accustomed to living in the shadows of others’ light. These programs offer them a chance to step into the spotlight—to share, to be seen, to rest, and to experience the restoration that Montana and Big Sky Bravery provide. Being a part of this organization in any capacity is an honor, but calling these incredible women my friends is a privilege beyond measure.
This week was designed around the spirit of a Montana summer adventure, and we embraced it fully with hiking, fishing, the LMR Rodeo, side-by-sides, a yurt dinner, and countless hours enjoying the deck of our home for the week, soaking in the beauty around us. We also snuck in a half-day at the incredible Reset Big Sky for a day of just that—total reset in a gorgeous environment with the friendliest staff!
To our donors—thank you. You may never fully understand the magnitude of your impact, but know that the peace you experience in your own life reflects the peace you’ve given to remarkable women who keep the spirit of this nation alive.
Ladies of TF124, you are a gift. You are extraordinary, with hearts of pure gold. Your stories are treasures we will always hold dear. Your strength is unmatched, and your sacrifices are forever etched into my heart.
Profound thanks to the TF124 volunteers—Emily, Melissa, and Jordi. Your unwavering care and dedication made this week the success that it was. We couldn't have done it without you.
As we continue this mission together, let us never forget the power of a common goal, resilience, and the light we can bring to others. We stand stronger because of these remarkable women; together, we can help them carry the torch of hope, honor, and unwavering strength.
With gratitude,
Allyson Keller
TF124 Director
Volunteers to Thank:
Allyson Keller (Task Force Director)
Emily Hanson (Assistant Task Force Director)
Melissa Ferraro
Jordi L.
Patriots to Thank:
Canyon Adventures
Lone Mountain Ranch
Reset Big Sky
Durbin Emerson
Anthem, LMNT, & Wild Society Coffee
“There are few experiences in life that literally leave you at a loss for words, but this was one of those for me. My experience in Montana with Big Sky Bravery is something I will treasure for my whole life.
As a military spouse and mother of three, I have not had the opportunity to just completely relax and let down my guard.
I feel like I am operating in fight-or-flight the majority of the time, with little time to do anything for myself. Arriving in Montana, being greeted by Ally and Melissa was the beginning of being able to completely let go and just enjoy myself!
The activities they had planned were the absolute best! Side by sides, fly fishing, shopping, a rodeo, dinner in a yurt and spa day......I have never had so much fun! We laughed until our cheeks hurt, stayed up late talking, ate delicious food (thank you Melissa), and bonded in a way I didn’t know was possible with women I'd never met.
I will always look back at this experience as one of the highlights of my life.
I'm forever grateful I got this opportunity and had the chance to meet Ally, Melissa, Emily, Jordi and Weezie!! You ladies are a gift to this organization and the world! Thank you will never be enough, but from the bottom of my heart, thank you, Big Sky Bravery.
With love and gratitude,
J.”
“Attending BSB was by far one of the most gratifying experiences. From the first point of contact via email and FaceTime, to the second I landed at the airport, the volunteers were nothing short of amazing. You ladies made me feel like I was special, cared for, and that I was loved before you even got a chance to know me. The genuine hospitality that every one of you exemplified was beyond anything I have experienced.
Having the ability to spend a week with those who share the common bond of a military spouse; to be able to open up and connect on a level that those on the outside do not truly understand, is something I will never forget nor take for granted.
Many times throughout my BSB experience, I would pause to reflect and soak in all the goodness in humanity that surrounded me. Big Sky Bravery made a significant impact on my husband when he went through the program, and now it has left a special place in my heart as well.
As a military spouse for over 22 years, BSB has restored my faith in those who truly understand the cost of freedom.
With a humble and heartfelt thank you, to all those who give so much to make Big Sky Bravery possible.
A.”
“BSB means so much to me and my family. My week in Montana was truly magical. The activities we participated in, from the rodeo and driving side-by-sides to fly fishing, provided a unique and extraordinary experience that allowed us to decompress, let go of household responsibilities, and fully embrace the moment. I had ample time to reflect, meditate, and rejuvenate.
As an introvert, I was initially apprehensive about sharing personal stories with people I had never met before. However, I felt comfortable enough to open up after just a few days. This was largely due to Ally and the wonderful volunteers who created a safe and non-judgmental environment. It was also a powerful reminder that many good people care about others and do the right thing without expecting anything in return.
I am still in awe of my experience at BSB; it brings tears to my eyes knowing that the generosity of donors who have never met us made this trip possible. Saying thank you doesn’t seem like enough. I hope my words will someday reach you and convey that I felt heard, seen, and appreciated as a military spouse because of your generosity.
Thank you for this wonderful experience.
D.”
“This trip and meeting the incredible ladies of Task Force 124 was something I never knew I needed as a military spouse.
The genuine and deep connections I made with fellow “silent servants” as we all have been in the shadows of the “quiet professionals” we love, is something I will cherish forever.
To know there are still such patriotic Americans who haven’t forgotten about us and are willing to give the resources and time for such a life-changing week, still leaves me in awe.
The whole week with these resilient women, I just couldn’t believe people were so willing to take care of us. We’ve been the ones taking care of everyone on the home front for years and to experience this kind of graciousness as a military spouse was transformative. I was able to rest my mind, body, and thoughts for the first time in a long time.
The loneliness that has come with this lifestyle was quickly exchanged with friendships of understanding without having to explain.
I will be forever grateful for this experience and opportunity given to me, and I cannot convey enough of my gratitude the impact Big Sky Bravery has had on me.
Thank you for everything!
K.”
“As a military spouse, I am deeply grateful for Big Sky Bravery and its generous donors.
BSB lifted the constant burden of "fight or flight," giving me the rare chance to simply be in the moment.
I witnessed my husband change for the better during his visit, and I’m incredibly thankful for the blessing of experiencing that transformation myself.
Big Sky Bravery’s genuine understanding of our unique challenges offered more than relief—it reminded us that we are truly seen and valued.
Their impact has provided us with peace and reconnection, strengthening our family bonds in ways I will cherish forever.
K.”
“I cannot begin to describe the remarkable experience I had being part of Spouse Task Force 124. During my time in Montana I embarked on a journey that allowed me to not only explore the breathtaking beauty of the state but to deepen my personal growth and also have a time to reset mentally.
Being a SOF wife for 11 years, it was the first time I truly felt like I wasn’t “on.”
This experience was made unforgettable, in large part by our incredible task force leader, Ally.
Ally is one of the most selfless and inspiring individuals I have ever met. Her dedication and unwavering support transformed our time together, creating an environment where we felt encouraged and uplifted. The kindness and compassion exhibited by all the volunteers further enriched our experience, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie that I will cherish forever. The activities they planned and how they supported us were truly amazing.
Big Sky Bravery plays a crucial role in supporting Special Forces families, and I am immensely grateful for all they do. Their efforts not only help us navigate the challenges we face but also remind us of the importance of connection, resilience, and love.
I am truly appreciative of their dedication and the positive impact they have on my life.
A.”