Alumni River Trip | Salmon River, ID
A note from the Task Force Director.
Our annual Alumni River Task Force is in the books, and what a privilege and honor it was to spend the week in one of America’s most beautiful and protected wildernesses. Five BSB alumni made the trek back west to reunite in a place they each cherish. Some are recently retired from the military, some are soon to be retired, and others continue to serve our nation after many years of faithful service.
After our initial reunion in Bozeman, MT, we made our way to Stanley, ID, where we met up with Eli and the entire river guide team from Boundary Expeditions. Once the boats were prepped and loaded, and we had our introductory “how to survive the river” briefing, we headed out on our 100-mile adventure down the middle fork of the Salmon River and into the vastness of the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness.
For five days and four nights, we slowly navigated the Middle Fork, interspersed with challenging rapids that kept the excitement high. We rotated through various rafts and kayaks, each testing our abilities as we faced the river alone, as a boat team, or simply drifting along, casting a fly rod. For each of us, the history of the Middle Fork, spanning thousands of years from its first inhabitants to the miners and ranchers of the last 150 years, was hard to comprehend in this rugged and remote place. It is comforting to know that there are still places in America where beauty and nature are well preserved.
A special thank you is not enough to Boundary Expeditions and the entire team for providing such a professionally run operation and for allowing us to experience what you get to enjoy all summer long. The river and our loss of connection with the world for a week are what each of us desires most, reminding us that life is not that bad. Calm, peaceful mornings and evenings allowed everyone to separate and drift into deep reflection of life past, present, and future. One alum put it best when he said, “This past week gave me great appreciation for how much I miss my family.” Thank you to all the donors, supporters, and staff of BSB who make memories such as these possible.
Dave Paul
TF “River Trip” Director
Volunteers to thank
Dave Paul, Task Force Director
Andrew M.
Patriots to Thank
Boundary Expeditions
Stone Glacier
“As a previous BSB Task Force recipient, I had no doubt that a follow-on alumni trip would be incredible. The experience did not disappoint—the 2026 River Trip with BSB and Boundary Expeditions was truly life-changing.
Unplugging in the wilderness of Idaho, learning new skills on the water, relaxing in hot springs, and fishing the Middle Fork of the Salmon River were all incredible experiences.
However, the most rewarding aspect of the trip was spending time with like-minded folks who understand service, sacrifice, and the intentional effort it takes to maintain healthy balance in the demanding world of Special Operations.
As both a recipient of these programs and a leader in a unit who has observed the positive impacts of these programs on our Operators and families, I remain convinced that BSB is providing a critically important and unique service to the SOF community.
I am grateful to Big Sky Bravery, the volunteers, and all of the donors who continue to give more than they take. Thank you!”
-Alumni River Trip Recipient
“It's been about a week since we all got off the middle fork but I can tell you that the positive emotions have not faded! I don't think I've ever had such a decompressing and relaxing week in my life. It was magical to be out there, away from the digital (and operational) drain of the past 20+ years. I've also never seen such natural, uninhibited natural beauty: it was like traveling back in time (but with amazing food and logistical support). Finally, I've rarely seen a team like Eli's guides. They were consummate professionals and the only thing that surpassed the natural beauty experience was talking with these dedicated river experts and learning their personal stories. Overall, this week easily ranks as one of the best experiences of my life and I'm eternally grateful to the Big Sky Bravery family and Boundary Expeditions for providing to our veteran community. “
-Alumni River Trip Recipient
“Last week, I was fortunate enough to spend time on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River with fellow BSB Alumni, BSB volunteers, and an amazing crew from Boundary Expeditions.
Trying to capture this experience in words is tough. As the week progressed, each day on the river seemed to get better and better... between the unbelievable views, insane meals, and top-notch camaraderie, it was apparent this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
I would be remiss to say that the overwhelming sense of gratitude I experienced wasn't felt in a selfish manner. My gratitude, in this remote and beautiful river valley, was directly tied to BSB. How BSB is able to continue to fill my soul with such deep appreciation for their mission and purpose is awe inspiring.
I left the Middle Fork rejuvenated, humbled, and focused...focused to be a better father, better husband, and better friend. Thank you, BSB, again, for your intentional efforts to heal my mind, strengthen my body, and expand my network of BSB friends and mentors!
Until next time.”
“The week on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River was exactly what I needed.
Since retiring three years ago, I’ve been heads down building a company. It’s been rewarding, but it has also meant long hours behind a MacBook and far less time outdoors than I’d like. Working remotely can also be isolating at times, so spending a week with guys I used to serve alongside, and other like-minded professionals who are still actively serving in their respective organizations, was something I didn’t realize I needed. It was a chance to reconnect, share experiences from life after the military, and remember that the bond forged through service doesn’t end when you hang up the uniform.
The alumni program is incredibly valuable, and I can’t recommend it highly enough to fellow retired operators or anyone who has participated in a traditional Big Sky Bravery Task Force. Programs like this provide something that’s difficult to find elsewhere: genuine connection, shared purpose, and the opportunity to reset.
Lastly, Boundary Expeditions has assembled one of the most passionate, professional, and knowledgeable guide teams I’ve ever encountered. Being around people who are truly committed to mastering their craft reminded me of what I loved most about my time in the SOF community. It was a powerful reminder that individuals of that caliber don’t only exist inside windowless buildings and secure compounds. They’re out there living with the same level of excellence, humility, and purpose.
I’m grateful for the experience, the friendships, and the reminder that adventure, challenge, and community are still waiting on the other side of military service.”
