For those of us that have been fortunate enough to have served on more than one task force, we learn that with each TF comes new experiences and new emotions.  Task Force 93 was no different.  Even before the first day came, TF93 was shaping up to be unique.   Well laid plans put in place weeks prior were ended up getting thrown out like rotten fruit just days before our recipients arrived.   The unpredictability of an early Montana summer struck with unmatched audacity.  Our plans pivoted at the eleventh hour to introduce activities that were more weather agnostic.   By the time four of the most incredible defenders of our country’s freedom arrived at Yellowstone International Airport, we were confident in our readiness for whatever Mother Nature would throw at us.   As the week played out, we learned her temperament to date was simply the wind-up.

Myself and my indispensable co-volunteers eagerly awaited the arrival of four unfamiliar individuals from the bottom of the escalator at the Bozeman airport.  Once we identified each other with the characteristic nod and smile, collected luggage and found our way to our vehicle, we set off for the BSB office and began a week-long journey that would end in friendships that even time won’t rip apart.   Rapport was established in record time and a level of comfort was apparent long before I had expected it to.  I attribute that to the character of the men that arrived as well as that of my volunteer team.   

We introduced our recipients to Big Sky Bravery, some of the staff and the plans we had settled on for the week.   Then it was off to Big Sky where we moved into our base of operations for the week ahead.  The first night was relatively low-key with a cookout, get-to-know-you conversations and relaxing in beautiful Big Sky.    

The next morning we started out with a leisurely hike south of town and ate a sack lunch among beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, babbling tributaries and some Montana wildflowers.  Our hike finished a bit early so we had time to get to Lone Mountain Ranch for a relaxing horseback ride through their beautiful grounds.   A big “thank you” is owed to LMR for their generosity in providing horses, a guide and entertainment for our ride.  And mother nature was generous as well…until the next day.

Knowing that the supreme beauty of Montana would be hidden behind a veil of rain and clouds on day two, we decided to pile in our black chariot and tour Yellowstone National Park.   While traffic was burdensome, it did afford us plenty of opportunity to gaze out the windows at the glory of the park.  Steam vents, crystal clear pools of superheated water, elk, moose, grizzlies and deer were just some of the sights to be seen.   We even enjoyed a front row seat at the famed “Old Faithful” geyser, albeit during a deluge of rain unlike any other most of us have experienced.   And then there was the hike.  We set off on foot for a short five-ish mile walk out to a waterfall and some more steam vents.  We got amazing pictures (mental and digital) of a beautiful waterfall framed in rain not long before Mother Nature decided to throw a curveball with some heavy rain, hail, thunder and lightening.   In a true representation of the unique nature of these men, we watched tourists run for cover while our recipients simply smiled, looked up to the heavens and genuinely enjoyed the experience.   We are still talking today about how the weather actually enhanced a great day rather than taking from it.    Amazing attitudes from amazing men.

If day two brought crazy weather that made for great stories around the dinner table, day three one-upped it.   The generosity of Canyon River Adventures (thank you Ed and staff) was once again unmatched as they provided some side-by-sides for a less-than-leisurely drive into the mountains south of Big Sky.   Mother Natured teased us with a mild start to the day right up until we set off on our journey.  More rain, sleet and hail pelted our path turning an otherwise manageable trail until something that looked like a World Rally Cup driving course.   Again, our new friends answered the call with smiles, enthusiasm and a stream of “Woo Hoo’s” as they attacked the muddy course with driving skills on par to that of hall of fame rally drivers.  Trails expertly negotiated gave way to muddy faces, chilled hands and what was the most memorable day of the task force so far.   These gentlemen flipped Mother Nature’s efforts to hinder our day and soldiered on like nothing was awry.   

On the fourth and final full day of TF93, we were rewarded for our tenacity with beautiful blue skies, warm temperatures and breathtaking views while floating the upper Madison River to fish for Montana’s famous trout.   Each of our guests landed multiple fish, thanks in part to our amazing fishing guides.   I saw smiles from all whether landing fish or offering polite parting words to the ones that got away.   The ride back at the end of the day was filled with discussion about what their favorite part of the week was.   The ultimate conclusion was that no one could decide.   “EPIC” was the most common word to describe each and every day.

The next day we packed up our belongings, loaded the vehicles and returned to Bozeman for my least favorite part of this and every task force I’ve been on…the “Goodbye’s.”   Laughter, hugs and a few tears rounded out the week as myself, Stu Binenstock and Randy Kleinhans bid farewell to our new friends.   As we drove away from the airport, the three of us were stunned at the week we just had.   We commented on how surprised we were that in such a short time we could build a kinship with four men that started out strangers and ended up brothers.   We were blessed with a week we will never forget.   May God bless these men, their families and the United States of America.

Ron Culver
Task Force 93 Director

TF93 Volunteers:

Ron Culver - TFD
Stu Binenstock
Randy Kleinhans

TF93 Patriots:

Lone Mountain Ranch (horseback ride & guide)
Canyon Adventures (side-by-sides)
Eric Wilcott, Charlie Johnson, Marcus Fay, & David Dexter (fishing guides)

“To the donors, staff, and volunteers of Big Sky Bravery - THANK YOU. The week you either funded or coordinated was epic, to say the least.  This experience was a once in a lifetime dream come true. I rarely get the time away to relax and reflect on my own life, let alone take part in team building events. This came just at the right time; it was the slow-down I needed and for that I am very appreciative. The whole experience was humbling. To see so many people giving their time and resources to us and truly care about the well-being of a Special Operations Soldier is something I personally have never experienced. I cannot express how grateful I am to the donors and the volunteers of Big Sky Bravery.”

• M.

“I have known for a long time that I needed a break. I could feel it—unable to turn off the vigilance so necessary in my job and exhausted. I know that if I am going to keep doing what I do, I have to find a way to turn it off for a while.  Until BSB brought me out to Montana, I just didn’t know how to take a break—I have tried.  Most times, I returned feeling like a failure because I came home exhausted and frustrated—unable to find that elusive mix of physical and mental engagement and camaraderie that I craved and that I knew would reset me.  Other times, I just didn’t want to leave my team.  I can plan a complex, high-risk mission in an austere environment with relative ease, but putting together a trip that would let me unwind without shutting off, seemed like a hill I wasn’t going to be able to climb. It was another responsibility on my already long list of things I needed to learn to do.  Big Sky Bravery took that responsibility for me. They told me to show up, and they would do the rest.  They took that burden from me and gave me a place to connect with and people to rely on.  That BSB does this with the full support of my command team gave me the extra peace of mind that they also wanted me there and that I wasn’t leaving the team with extra weight to pull.  Thank you for what you have shown me, given me, and the lifelong home that I know I can return to when I need it.  

So many of the BSB donors are unknown to me—the same way that most people don’t know what I do or where I do it.  So, I can appreciate that service often goes unnoticed.  I hope this serves as the notice that while I may not know you, your contribution made a difference. Thank you.”

• P.  

“The dust has settled from our time on TF93 with BSB and I am simply left with a reminder of “WHY” we do what we do day in and day out for the American People and our Allies. 

Rejuvenated, refreshed, and refocused is what comes to mind when looking back on my time with BSB in Montana. This was a “knee” I didn’t know I needed to take, but I am grateful and equally humbled I was afforded the opportunity to. From the stellar volunteers to the BSB staff and, last but not least, to the amazing Patriot donors — thank you for all you do and continue to do for our brothers and sisters in arms as well as the lasting impact on our families. 

It is my hope that BSB can scale to the point where every deserving SOF Service Member and their families can feel what the recipients of TF93 currently feel! 

Thank you, and GOD Bless!”

• C.

“To the Big Sky Bravery Team,

I am writing to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation for the incredible experience I had during my week-long stay with your organization in the beautiful state of Montana. As a Special Operations veteran, this was an unforgettable journey that left an indelible mark on my heart and soul.

From the moment I arrived, I was overwhelmed by the warm and welcoming atmosphere provided by BSB. The dedication and compassion demonstrated by your staff and volunteers was truly inspiring. The genuine care and support extended to me and my fellow veterans throughout our stay made us feel valued and appreciated in a way that words cannot adequately express.

The itinerary planned for us was nothing short of extraordinary. The range of activities and experiences provided us with a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, challenge ourselves mentally, and create lasting memories. Whether it was hiking through the breathtaking mountains, braving hail and lightning in Yellowstone National Park, fishing the pristine Upper Madison River, or engaging in team-building exercises via side-by-side or horseback, every moment was filled with adventure and camaraderie.

 I would like to extend a special note of appreciation to the cadre of TF 93 who accompanied us during our time, Ron, Stu, and Randy. Their expertise, patience, and genuine passion for the outdoors made each adventure a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.  During our nightly questions, the BSB team and my fellow veterans provided me with practical tools, resources, and a supportive network to help navigate the challenges we face as veterans. The dedication of your organization to our well-being and successful reintegration into civilian life is truly commendable. Moreover, the bonds forged with my fellow veterans and the connections we made with the staff and volunteers of your organization will be life-changing. The camaraderie and shared experiences provided a sense of belonging and understanding that is often difficult to find outside the military community. The friendships we developed will undoubtedly last a lifetime, and for that, I am forever grateful.

 In conclusion, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the donors and the entire BSB family for the extraordinary work you do in supporting veterans like myself. Your unwavering commitment to our well-being and your dedication to providing transformative experiences is a testament to your compassion and generosity. The impact you have had on my life, and the lives of countless other veterans, cannot be overstated.

With utmost gratitude,

K.”