A note from the family.

“As I near the end of a 20-year Army career, including 15 years in the Special Operations community, I find myself reflecting on what comes next. I didn't learn about Big Sky Bravery until late in my career, but I am incredibly grateful that organizations like this exist and that donors choose to invest not only in service members, but in their families.

When we arrived in Montana, my kids were immediately excited. They raced through the lodge arguing over who got which room before my daughters claimed the giant bunk beds and my son happily disappeared to the basement.

Every day brought something new. We hiked to Ousel Falls, rode horses and forded a mountain river, went whitewater rafting and plunged into freezing water, then experienced the Lone Mountain Ranch Rodeo; my son kept going back for more food and my daughters left the rodeo talking about becoming barrel racing cowgirls. My son and I learned how to fly fish, wading in the Gallatin River, while my wife and daughters climbed Lone Mountain and finally toured the beauty of Yellowstone National Park.

But if I had to choose one moment that captured the week, it would be watching my entire family climb onto horses for the first time and ford a mountain river together. Against the backdrop of the Montana mountains, each of us faced something unfamiliar and a little intimidating. The kids admitted afterward that they had been nervous, but none of them let fear stop them. Seeing all five of us step outside our comfort zones together is a memory I'll never forget.

One moment that especially touched our family happened on my youngest daughter’s seventh birthday. Jackie, from BSB, and her daughter took the time to make cupcakes just for her. It wasn't part of the itinerary; it was simply an act of kindness that made her feel special. Those small moments say a lot about the people behind Big Sky Bravery.

The biggest surprise wasn't a single activity. It was something I realized about myself.

For much of my career, I've spent my life watching over others. Even with my own family, I often found myself making sure everyone else was having a good experience. During this week, I realized I wasn't just watching; I was experiencing life alongside them. That's a subtle difference, but for me it was a profound one.

Some of our favorite moments happened after the adventures were over. Sitting in the hot tub each evening, talking through the connection questions, sharing our favorite parts of the day, and simply listening to one another became some of the most meaningful memories of the trip.

Big Sky Bravery isn't just about the incredible adventures Montana has to offer. It's about creating space for families to reconnect, slow down, and be fully present with one another.

As I transition into the next chapter of my life, this experience reminded me that my most important mission is no longer preparing for the next deployment; it's being present with my wife and children.

To every donor, volunteer, guide, and staff member who made this week possible, thank you. You didn't simply provide a vacation. You gave our family experiences we'll remember forever.“