TF136 | Big Sky, MT
A note from the Task Force Director…
Friends,
TF136 was privileged to spend an amazing week mountainside in Big Sky, MT. While taking full advantage of the slopes just steps from our front door, we were able to explore the winter wonder of Montana to its fullest. This group, including some that had never skied, received the best our community offers from world-class instruction by our favorite red jacket, to yurt dinners and epic slopeside lunches, to the ubiquitous camaraderie of one of BSB’s longest-standing supporters. True to form, Montana once again delivered a relaxing atmosphere of authentic conversations, unprecedented activities, and a direct connection to citizens that are explicit in their unwavering support.
Selfishly, these weeks always generate for me the kind of excitement you’d feel introducing two close friends to each other for the first time. Coming from the recipients’ community, it is extremely satisfying to expose Big Sky locals to a group of folks that place integrity and accountability to each other and the work above all else. The distance doesn’t matter and the weight is irrelevant; you get their best without regard for politics, income bracket, or origin. They show up and excel because it’s in their DNA. Now living in Montana, I’m equally satisfied by recipients’ reactions when they meet our community. I get to show off how the news cycle doesn’t dictate our support, our memories are long, and our commitment to each other is bottomless. It feels a bit like we’re cut from the same cloth, doesn’t it?
To everyone in the BSB orbit, thanks for helping to carry the weight. I’d use more words to describe how much this means to the folks attending, but I think a recipient this week summed it up best with a simple, “holy shit, what a week!” High praise indeed.
First There,
Jon Gilbert
TF136 Task Force Director
Volunteers to Thank:
Jon Gilbert (Task Force Director)
Jake Olson (Assistant Task Force Director)
Alex Ford
Patriots to Thank:
Big Sky Resort
Canyon Adventures
Lone Mountain Ranch
Outdoor Research
FlasKap
PEAK Skis
Melissa Ferraro
Anthem Snacks, LMNT, & Wild Society Coffee
"Big Sky Bravery was one of the most impactful experiences in my military career. It revived my sense of purpose and relieved the stress of the career/ lifestyle we lead.
The relationships and memories that were formed will last well beyond any time in service. First-class experience from start to finish with fantastic Americans who want to see you succeed."
–J.
“I was astonished at the generosity, commitment, and sincerity of those supporting Big Sky Bravery; they truly exemplify, "Give more than you take."
After returning to work, I experienced a refreshed sense of appreciation for those that we work for: The American People.
Big Sky Bravery found the elusive key to rejuvenation — for both body and mind — and they found it in the mountains. The experience was priceless.“
–S.
“BSB truly provided a reprieve from the life that is constant stress. I hadn’t been skiing in over a decade and it reinvigorated my passion for something I loved to do.
So many times our hobbies we love get tossed aside for work, and this brought my spirit back to life.
Thank you”
-T.
“Big Sky Bravery gives back to the Operator all that he sacrifices to his organization.
They work with humility and integrity to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience with continued support. This was taken to a depth I have not seen before, which is exemplified by the generosity of the organization and the kindness of the volunteers. The volunteers allow recipients to truly decompress, reflect, and rediscover time for themselves. This is easily lost in commitment to the Job we do.
-J.”
"BSB was one of the greatest experiences in my life.
The ability to travel stress-free with no obligation other than to let loose. Never in my military career, outside of taking leave, I thought I would be able to enjoy a trip like this.
You never think about it in the time of being on this trip where life is so great until it ends and reflections start. Walking in the office with coworkers noticing a change, a light, on my face from working with other SOF operators in a stress free environment puts a new look on me. The motivation that stirred after this trip has helped in my workspace and family life.
- S.”
