Task Force 164: Purpose Found in the Mountains

Task Force 164 wrapped up five unforgettable nights in Big Sky, Montana, and this one was special in a different way. With just two recipients and three volunteers, we had a rare opportunity to slow down, go deep, and truly connect as a tight-knit group. From the very first introductory call, I knew this week was going to matter. There was excitement, gratitude, and an openness that set the tone long before they arrived at the Bozeman Airport.

We spent three full days skiing at the Yellowstone Club, looping Pioneer Mountain, and exploring every acre of that big mountain. Each day, we stacked more than 25,000 vertical feet, pushing ourselves both physically and mentally. Whether it was chasing lines, encouraging each other through fatigue, or sharing quiet lift rides, the mountain became the backdrop for real conversations. No distractions, just shared effort and trust building with every run.

Our backcountry snowmobiling day in Taylor Fork took things even further. Deep in the Gallatin National Forest, we were challenged by fresh snow and demanding terrain, relying on each other to keep moving forward. It was exhausting, humbling, and incredibly rewarding. One of those days where you feel completely present and fully alive.

What made this Task Force truly unique was the depth of engagement. With such a small group, it created room for deeper conversations and genuine connections. The recipients were all in on everything, from long ski days to late-night conversations by the fire. The theme that kept surfacing was purpose. Not just where we have been, but where we are headed next, and how shared challenge and brotherhood help bring clarity to that journey.

In just a few short days, we went from strangers to close friends. From the smiles at the start of the week to the final hugs at the airport, this experience was a reminder of how powerful shared experiences can be when people show up fully. Like every Task Force, we also had a phrase that became uniquely ours. Our unofficial tagline for the week was simply, “Nice.” Only the five of us know the meaning and the laughs behind it.

Task Force 164 was not loud or flashy. It was intentional, deep, and impactful in a way that will stay with me for a long time.

To our recipients, thank you for your trust and for bringing your whole selves into this experience. To my fellow volunteers, I am grateful for the way we led, supported, and grew together.

Don’t ever forget, you are worth it.

Brandon Vancleeve
TF164 Director

Volunteers to Thank

Brandon VanCleeve, Task Force Director
Thomas Boyce, Assistant Task Force Director
Josh McCain, Volunteer

Patriots to Thank

Canyon Adventures
Lone Mountain Ranch
Stone Glacier
Yellowstone Club
Welcome Bag Patriots: Anthem, Darn Tough, Dermatone, FHF Gear, FlasKap, Graplrz, LMNT, Melissa Ferraro, onX, & Wild Society Coffee

“I’m not sure where to even begin expressing what this week meant to me—words like ‘thank you’ feel too small for the impact you’ve had. Coming into the program, I was running close to empty after years of back-to-back deployments and the constant grind that comes with this line of work. I’d buried the stress, the doubts, and the quiet anger deep inside, convincing myself that pushing through was the only option. It has had an impact on my personal life and family.

But from the moment I arrived in Big Sky, everything shifted. The stunning Montana winter landscape—those endless snow-covered peaks and crisp, clear air—reminded me of the beauty we’re out there fighting to protect. The activities were perfect: tearing through fresh powder on snowmobiles across vast backcountry trails, then hitting the slopes to ski world-class runs at the YC. Gathering around the fire afterward for those raw, honest talks—no judgments, just brothers sharing stories and lifting each other up. The daily questions cut right to the core, sparking conversations that broke down walls I didn’t even know I’d built. I laughed harder than I have in years, felt the rush and peace at the top of a ridge, and formed bonds with the other guys that will last a lifetime.

Thanks to you, the staff, the volunteers, and every donor who makes this possible, I’m heading home renewed. I feel like a better husband and father, with a fresh sense of purpose and tools to handle whatever comes next.

You’ve shown me that it’s okay to ask for help and that there are good people out there who have our backs.

I’m forever grateful and can’t wait to pay it forward—maybe even volunteer one day to help others find this same peace.

With deepest appreciation,”

-Active-Duty SOF Recipient

“This week with BSB was beyond my expectations, and I couldn’t have asked for a better or more relaxing week. From skiing a world-class resort to the incredible dinners and hospitality that I was shown from Brandon, Tom, and Josh, I am forever thankful for the experience and will always be grateful for the opportunity to attend a BSB Task Force.”

-Active-Duty SOF Recipient