TF144 | Big Sky, MT
Volunteers to Thank:
Paul Makarechian, Task Force Director
Mark Esponda, Assistant Task Force Director
Ethan Ellis
Ron Culver
Patriots to Thank:
Lone Mountain Ranch
Big Sky Resort
Canyon Adventures
Peak Skis
Outdoor Research
Melissa Ferraro
ANTHEM Snacks//LMNT//Wild Society Coffee
“I can't put into words how much the week at BSB TF meant to me.
When you are constantly pushing forward and moving from mission to mission, you fail to realize how revitalizing taking a break and reflecting can be. When you have been grinding for two decades, you don't realize how much it truly wears you down.
The special operations community is an extremely close knit family that cannot be replicated anywhere. I had no idea that I would come out of this week with four more life-long brothers than I started with thanks to them volunteering to lead the BSB TF. They gave so selflessly of their time, advice and resources to make sure that we all had a unique once in a lifetime experience and their genuine selfless passion and love for what they do was always at the forefront.
I watched stoic warriors and professionals allow themselves to be vulnerable and truly grow as leaders, husbands, and fathers.
I know that this experience will make me a better teammate, leader, and subordinate while I wear the uniform, not to mention giving me a great perspective for what to expect when the day comes that I put that uniform on for the last time.
I can't capture in words how much this experience changed my life and how truly grateful I am for having the opportunity to be part of a BSB TF. If you get this opportunity you have to take it.
-J.”
“Donors, the ability you provide through your gracious funding, support, and capabilities touches lives in ways that words may not capture in totality.
This program provided something I didn’t know if I fully deserved or needed compared to my brothers and sisters who gave the ultimate sacrifice. What I can say is that this program forever changed me. I want to do more. I want to become a direct ambassador, volunteer, and supporter for those within our ranks who take on some of the hardest and most challenging tasks.
Know that in your generosity, you impact lives beyond tangible expectations.
This is one of the greatest experiences I could have ever imagined, and we thank you. From all of us to all of you, thank you, and remember, not all heroes wear capes.
-Z.”
“To the donors of Big Sky Bravery, I am honored and humbled to have benefitted from your generosity. It is challenging to put ‘pen to paper’ for fear of underselling the impact of BSB. Perhaps our sincere ‘thank you’ though is the purest form of gratitude. That’s what it is…unvarnished, deep gratitude for your commitment to the men and women of the United States Special Operations Forces and their families.
Your support provides access to a world-class experience that directly supports active duty SOF and enables us to continue to serve and strive as ‘the man in the arena.’ — Thank you.
Respectfully,
-C.”
“The amount of generosity from the donors and volunteers is beyond words. The opportunity I received; spending quality time with good down to earth people really does wonders for the soul.
The weight of life does wear down on a person and the relief of laughing with friends has renewed my spirit.
I am so grateful that this opportunity can be shared with my fellow soldiers and families.
I believe the spouses and families take the brunt of the hardships of our lives. I have so much respect and love for people who want to give anything in support of the ones we have to leave to manage the home when we are gone.
-T.”
