TF168 | Lone Mountain Ranch, MT
A note from the Assistant Task Force Director.
Task Force 168 encompassed a week at Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Montana. When the recipients arrived - despite some travel interruptions - there were big smiles and palpable eagerness to embark on the weeklong journey.
During the week, our group spent two days skiing at Big Sky. The group included a mix of experienced skiers and individuals who had never skied before. We were fortunate to have a world-class instructor who ensured everyone received quality instruction. The days on the mountain were filled with fun and laughter, physical exertion, and meaningful one-on-one conversations on the chairlifts. Trust was built as recipients pushed beyond their comfort zones while exploring new runs together.
One day was spent snowmobiling on Bucks Ridge. This unique experience provided an adrenaline-filled day on the sleds, balanced by moments of peace and solitude in the mountains. We took breaks from riding to enjoy lunch overlooking the valley, complete with a bonfire - an experience that allowed for reflection and connection.
Task Force 168 became affectionately known as “Task Force Meat Sweats,” a phrase coined in response to the incredible gourmet meals prepared by the ranch. Volunteers and recipients were able to relax, laugh, and engage in meaningful conversation at a rustic cabin accessible only by sleigh, as well as at the main lodge. Recipients were enthusiastic about fully embracing every activity and meal throughout the week. Evenings concluded with the “question of the night,” which sparked deep and thoughtful conversations.
Thank you to the recipients for placing their trust in the experience and embracing everything the week had to offer. A bond of friendship was formed that will be long-lasting for everyone involved.
Mark Esponda
Task Force 168 Assistant Director
Volunteers to Thank
Paul Makarechian, Task Force Director
Mark Esponda, Assistant Task Force Director
Ethan Ellis
Jim Mikulich
Patriots to Thank
Big Sky Resort
Canyon Adventures
Lone Mountain Ranch
Stone Glacier
Welcome Bag Patriots: Anthem, Darn Tough, Dermatone, FHF Gear, FlasKap, Graplrz, LMNT, Melissa Ferraro, onX, & Wild Society Coffee
"My week at BSB was truly a world-class experience. Not only in terms of the quality of the facilities and activities, but in terms of the relationships that were formed. The volunteers and BSB Staff were truly amazing to work with and were so helpful in the days leading up to the trip. But more importantly, they almost immediately became trusted confidants and lifelong friends. The highlight of the week was our evening discussions, where we were able to really open up and share both the highs and lows of military service and life in general. I know will stay in touch with these men during the rest of my military service - and beyond.
Without a doubt, I can say I returned home with a renewed sense of purpose, commitment, and dedication. I returned home a better father, husband, and Soldier.
I will be forever grateful for this opportunity."
-Task Force 168 Recipient
"The Big Sky Bravery program was a blessing to me. I came into the program after nearly a year of high-paced work with very little downtime. Spending time and connecting with colleagues, fantastic Big Sky Bravery volunteers, and the amazing Montana community was both an extremely relaxing and humbling experience.
I walked away from the week energized and ready to go back into work with a clear head.
I also left with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and immense inspiration from the generosity that Big Sky Bravery, its donors, its volunteers, and the local community put into making us feel welcome and loved. I will make every opportunity in the coming months and years to send more of our folks out to gain the benefits of the program."
-Task Force 168 Recipient
"Having had a few days to reflect on my Big Sky Bravery experience, I continue to think ‘WOW!’ and have the deepest feeling of gratitude. After running full speed for most of the last 29 years (and the last 20 in Special Operations), this was a much-needed reset. I have known about BSB since its early years and had been on the list to attend three other times; only to be forced to pull back due to operational requirements. I am thankful for my command in giving me the opportunity one last time before I am off to the next chapter in life.
As many of us tend to do, I have done a great job in compartmentalizing the stressors that are inherent in our jobs; both the good and the bad. From the second that I arrived in Montana, I could feel some of that stress release.
It was great to be back in the Rocky Mountains, where I had spent so much of my childhood. They have aways been a place of Zen for me. The fresh air. The views. The sense of peace.
The daily activities pushed my comfort levels and reminded me that we are alive; both physically and emotionally.
The volunteers and instructors were phenomenal at determining individual skill levels and encouraged me to take it a few steps further: often to the point of exhaustion. When all of that was done, we sat around the fireplace for the ‘Question of the Day’ with no time to think through a response. Completely honest answers without fear of judgment. There were laughs. There were tears. There was understanding. These conversations allowed me to open up with men who were complete strangers on day one and brothers that I knew I could count on by the end.
The trip reassured me that there are still amazing and generous people in this world who care deeply about the welfare of the warriors out there.
I departed Big Sky Bravery much more comfortable with the idea that I am ready for that next chapter in life. Volunteerism has always been at the core of who I am. I hope that I can return the favor and support a future Big Sky Bravery Task Force.
Forever Grateful.”
-Task Force 168 Recipient
“The week I spent out in Montana with BSB was truly a gift. The amazing generosity of the volunteers and donors is unmatched. Being able to reset with like-minded individuals in the beautiful landscape of Montana is something I will never forget.
I highly recommend this program and will be forever grateful to the community that continues to make it happen.”
-Task Force 168 Recipient
“After 16 years of service and numerous deployments, without question, this was one of the greatest gifts I’ve received from the community…. Great reminder that community still exists, and that people truly care.
I am incredibly grateful to everyone (Paul, Ethan, Mark, Jim, Organizers, Donors, other volunteers, and the community) who made this experience possible. Rest assured, this experience will have a lasting impact!!!
Every detail….The outdoor experiences (skiing, snowmobiling, and time spent in the mountains), food, the small group talk , and the overall experience were exceptional. But what stood out most were the people. Their genuine commitment to serving & giving back to the Special Operations Community was evident.”
-Task Force 168 Recipient
