HURLBURT FIELD, FL - A former Air Force Special Operations Command combat controller and command chief was recognized for more than 45 years of service to the special operations community through induction into the Commando Hall of Honor May 15.

Retired Chief Master Sgt. Wayne Norrad was inducted into the United States Special Operations Command Hall of Honor during the 2013 Special Operations Forces Industry Conference gala dinner in Tampa, Fla.

 The Commando Hall of Honor recognizes the accomplishments of individuals who have distinguished themselves through unique and prestigious contributions to the special operations community.

Norrad, who currently serves as a director for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, is credited as one of the developmental pioneers of combat control and pararescue, responsible for helping shape the joint special operations team into what it is today.

He developed High Altitude High Opening parachute insertion procedures, worked to instill special duty assignment pay for combat controllers and pararescuemen, and secured the Valor device for Air Force Commendation and Achievement Medals so junior enlisted Airmen could be recognized for their actions in combat.

Norrad was on the ground in Panama in pursuit of Manuel Noriega during Operation Just Cause and was the senior special tactics noncommissioned officer during combat operations in Desert Shield and Storm. He was also the combat controller who opened Kuwait City International Airport under enemy fire before the close of the conflict.

When he found out he was being inducted into the Hall of Honor, Norrad said he was extremely humbled his name will be counted alongside those of men like Col. John Carney and Brig. Gen. Harry "Heinie" Aderholt.

"It's not just me getting this award," Norrad said. "It's everyone who has trained with me, been to war with me, touched me. They are part of your makeup, and so when I'm going into these awards it isn't really just me. It's my whole team going in."

Norrad, of Saco, Maine, has maintained that sense of leadership, quiet professionalism and commitment to the mission throughout his career.

He was only one of two Airmen on his team who had seen combat prior to jumping into Rio Hato, Panama during Operation Just Cause.

He recalls it as one of the most intimidating moments of his career because the team had received reports combatants knew special operations forces were on the way.

A chief in charge of his combat control team, Norrad said he had to be the calming voice for his teammates.

"Okay guys, we're one minute out," he said over the radio. "Good luck, be safe, and don't forget you still have to do your job. I'll see you on the ground."

Norrad, 66, is still doing his job since retiring from active duty service. He works as a program analyst and public affairs liaison at the 24th Special Operations Wing, Hurlburt Field, Fla., and is active in the Combat Control Association and the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

"Wayne is an icon in AFSOC and continues to serve as a leader both in the military as well as in the civilian community," said Col. Robert Armfield, Commander of the 24th Special Operations Wing.

Though his accolades include such prestigious honors as the National Defense Industrial Association DeProspero Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Air Commando Hall of Fame in 2004, Norrad does not cite these individual honors when asked to recount his proudest moments.

The first that comes to mind is when one of his Airmen was selected as one of the Air Force 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year. Another is securing the Valor device for commendation medals.

He often reminds up-and-coming special tactics Airmen to let their actions do the talking while at home base and when working as a member of a joint team.

"Being humble in special tactics is a big asset because, if you're not, those team members you are trying to work with are not going to appreciate you..." he said. "We have to be humble to be effective, so we miss out on the limelight a lot with the media, and sometimes that is best for us. Being the quiet, humble professional goes a long way."

Another quiet professional and former AFSOC pararescuemen inducted into the Hall of Honor alongside Norrad is retired Master Sgt. Scott Fales.

Fales is also a recipient of SOCOM's highest honor, the Bull Simons Award, which is a lifetime achievement award recognizing the spirit, values and skills of the unconventional warrior.

In addition, Fales earned the Silver Star and Purple Heart for his heroic actions during a search and rescue mission in Mogadishu, Somalia in August 1993 when Black Hawk helicopter "Super 6-1" went down.

"From his time on the streets of Mogadishu in 1993 to merging combat development technologies in his current job, Mr. Fales epitomizes the can-do culture of AFSOC and represents the best of America," Armfield said.

Those attending the ceremony included Josh Dorsey, GLOCK Vice President; retired Air Force Col. John T. Carney Jr., and Tricia Simmons, the surviving spouse of Army Master Sgt. Shawn Simmons who lost his life in Afghanistan in 2008 while assigned to the 7th Special Forces Group.  Simmons’ son, Justin, 15, will be receiving funds for a college education through the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.  

"GLOCK, Inc. is proud to continue its support of the Special Operations Warrior Foundation with our annual donation,” shared Dorsey. "We are tremendously grateful for the sacrifice and dedication of the armed forces, and relish the opportunity to contribute to honoring the men and women on the front lines.”

This year’s donation bring GLOCK’s total contribution for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation to $800,000.

"We are deeply appreciative of the men and women at GLOCK,” said John T. Carney Jr. "These funds will go a long way to providing a quality college education for the children of fallen special operations heroes.”

About GLOCK, Inc.
The GLOCK GROUP is a leading global manufacturer of pistols and accessories. GLOCK's superior engineering has produced a pistol with only 34 parts and a rugged polymer-frame, providing industry-leading reliability shot after shot. GLOCK is renowned for its pistols which are safe, featuring three safeties; simple, offering a low number of components to provide reliability; and fast, with no encumbering parts to slow the speed to fire. This combination makes GLOCK pistols the first choice among consumers and law enforcement, with approximately 65 percent of agencies within the United States choosing to carry GLOCK. Austrian-engineered, the group has manufacturing facilities in the United States and Austria. Based in Smyrna, Ga., GLOCK, Inc. is an advocate for our nation's law enforcement and military personnel, as well as all citizens' Second Amendment right to bear arms. For more information, please visit http://us.glock.com.

Operation 300, which is hosted by the family of fallen Navy SEAL Aaron Vaughn, held its inaugural weekend camp in April at the Angelfire Ranch in Stuart, Fla.

Navy SEAL, Aaron Carson Vaughn, was killed August 6, 2011 when a Chinook chopper carrying 30 American troops was shot down in Afghanistan. Aaron had just celebrated his 30th birthday, and he left behind a young wife and two small children.

Growing up on a small farm in West Tennessee, Aaron loved fishing, hunting, football, four-wheeling, mudding, and later, after moving to Florida, surfing.   Operation 300 is designed to incorporate as much as those activities along with pairing up the young boys with a big brother mentor. "Aaron was a man’s man, but a child at heart,” sister Tara Vaughn Baldwin says in a letter on their website.  "He always made everyone laugh and was constantly forcing us all to join in his child like shenanigans. We happily obliged. He was always up for an adventure and lived everyday to the fullest. His love of God, family and country was unparalleled. He truly had the heart of a warrior.

It is only fitting that to honor him, we give kids who have lost so much the opportunity to live like Aaron...if only for a short time.”

Although the weekend started out with dark clouds and stormy weather, the spirts and enthusiasm from the boys was not dampened at all.  They boys quickly bonded and had a great time.  Operation 300 campers had the opportunity to ride horses, learn archery, surf and sail, as well as other camping activities. 

For more information about Operation 300, visit online at www.operation300.com

Our new address is 1137 Marbella Plaza Dr., Tampa, FL 33619. This is in the Balaye Office Center off Falkenberg Road, just north of the Crosstown Expressway and south of Highway 60.

Due to our relocation the week of May 6, our email, phones and website will be offline from May 8 to May 10. We appreciate your patience during this period.

The SOWF phone number will remain 813-805-9400, and our fax number will remain 813-805-0567.

From May 8-10, if you have an urgent matter, the following SOWF employees can be reached by cell phone.

Regarding SOWF operations: Executive Director Steve McLeary at 813-503-0171

SOWF operations, public relations and media inquiries: Deputy Executive Director Edie Rosenthal at 813-843-4417

Family services, including support of wounded Special Operations personnel, support of surviving spouses and children, and scholarships:

Noel Hike, Jr., at 813-810-1215

Lisa Nantz at 813-407-2339

Melinda Scofield at 813-407-0940

Check out the newest edition of the SOWF's Warrior Link.

It's packed with information and photos, including updates on our scholarship recipients and the spouses of wounded and fallen special operations personnel and their children; family photo albums; and much more.

Nine teams of runners and cyclists departed Maxwell Air Force Base Alabama on Thursday evening, March 7 for a 465-mile relay journey that took them to MacDill Air Force Base.

 
Some 65 participants, mostly active duty, reserve and international military officers at the Air Command and Staff College, along with a few family members, two Civil Air Patrol Cadets and two military journalists, switched off with a baton throughout the journey.  Most of the participants wore the names of fallen warriors to pay tribute to their memories.

 
The goal for this endeavor was to raise awareness and funds for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports Army, Navy, Air force and Marine Corps special operations personnel.

For Major Matt Astroth, the mission is personal.

"I come from the Special Operations Community myself,” said Astroth.  "I've lost friends along with most of the people here. They are all basically running on behalf of friends they have lost in combat. For me, I have a personal commitment to the event along with a lot of the other folks doing this with me."

Once reaching Tampa, the group gathered at Patriots Park and ran the final 4 miles together as a team towards MacDill Air Force Base and the Special Operations Memorial. There the team presented a check for $20,000 to the SOWF President, John T. Carney, Jr.

"I cannot thank this group enough for their support,” said Carney.  "What they have done in these 48-hours is amazing and their donation will go a long way towards honoring the sacrifices of our fallen special operations warriors.”

(March 11) The New York Yankees and the Special Operations Warrior Foundation hosted three families of fallen special operations warriors at a Spring training game yesterday at Steinbrenner Field here in Tampa.

The families were treated to a day of hotdogs, peanuts and a day in the sun watching the New York Yankees win over the St. Louis Cardinals.

Michelle Perry (top right) and her son, Matthew, 11, are the family of Navy Chief Petty Officer Matthew Bourgeois, who lost his life in Afghanistan in 2008.  They were joined by Rachel Ganczewski (center with SOWF ballcap) and her daughter Makayla, 7, the family of Army Sgt. Steven Ganczewski, who lost his life in Iraq in 2007 and also Tricia Simmons (top left) and her son, Justin, 15, who are the family of Army Master Sgt. Shawn Simmons.

"The New York Yankee organization has always been so supportive of the men and women who proudly serve in our military,” said John T. Carney Jr., SOWF President and Chief Executive Officer. 

"We are honored to have the families of fallen heroes join us for a day at Steinbrenner Field.”

The Special Operations Warrior Foundation provides college educations to the surviving children of fallen special operations personnel. The SOWF has seen 219 of its students graduate college, and currently has 140 students enrolled in colleges and universities across the country.   There are another 600 children who have yet to reach college age in the foundation’s program.

Some 65 participants, mostly active duty, reserve and international military officers at the Air Command and Staff College, along with a few family members, two Civil Air Patrol Cadets and two military journalists, plan on reaching Tampa in 48 hours.  The group will have 19 bicycles and nine support vehicles.

The goal for this endeavor is raising awareness and funds for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports Army, Navy, Air force and Marine Corps special operations personnel.

 Once reaching Tampa, the group will gather at Patriots Park, which is at the corner of Bay to Bay and Bayshore boulevards at approximately 5 pm on Saturday, March 9th and run the final 4 miles together as a team towards MacDill Air Force Base and the Special Operations Memorial.  The relay team’s goal is to raise $46,500 or $100 per mile. 

You can support the relay team by making a donation online, (http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/acsc13/warriorrelay)and all proceeds go directly to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

The march honored five Air Commandos lost last year in the line of duty.

A crowd of uniformed military personnel, family members of the marchers and SOWF staff gathered at the Special Operations Forces Memorial at MacDill AFB to await the arrival of the 17 marchers and support crew.

As the marchers’ formation approached and the U.S. flags they were carrying appeared above the memorial wall, the applause began. When the marchers entered the memorial site, everyone cheered.Immediately, the Commando team encircled the statue in the center of the SOF Memorial. Then they clasped hands, bowed their heads, and silently prayed for about a minute.

"It’s been an emotional journey for all of us,” said McGowan, who suffered severe blisters on his feet during the trip. Following the prayer, the team was congratulated by the military dignitaries present, including Air Force Maj. Gen. Thomas Trask, Director for Force Structure, Requirements, Resources and Strategic Assessments at SOCOM.

"I certainly appreciate what the Warrior Foundation does,” said Trask.That sentiment was echoed by Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James Laster, the Deputy Chief of Staff at SOCOM, who said, "I’m very appreciative of the organization and what it does.”

The march held special significance for Maj. Gen Laster, because one of the men being honored by the commando team was Air Force Lt. Col. J. D. Loftis, who died a year ago while serving with the 866th Air Expeditionary Squadron in Kabul, Afghanistan.

"I served with him at the time he was killed,” Laster said.

As the commandos made rubbings of the names of comrades newly added to the SOF Memorial wall, he said he was impressed with the team’s determination to accomplish their mission:

 "When you know the pain you are going to go through, that takes a tough guy.”

This year, the Air Commando team added a mountain climb to their fundraising effort.

"You have much to be proud of," said Edie Rosenthal, SOWF Public Relations Director.  "Because of your efforts, the loved one of our fallen heroes know their sacrifices will never be forgotten." 

Tomorrow, Feb. 9, two commandos will travel to Africa and begin their ascent of Mt Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

Click here to make a donation in honor of the Air Commando Ruck March

The march starts this Sunday, Feb. 3rd, at Hurlburt Field (near Fort Walton Beach, Fla) and ends, at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, FL, home of the United States Special Operations Command. The route will cover 450 miles and take us along Highway 98, (old 98 and 30A for a short stretch) through the communities of Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Sandestin, Watercolor, Seaside, Alys Beach, Grayton, Panama City Beach, Mexico Beach, Port St Joe, Apalachicola, Eastpoint, Carabelle, Perry, turning onto route 19 towards Cross City, Fanning Springs, Chiefland, Otter Creek, Inglis, Crystal River, Homosassa Springs. The second to last leg takes the marchers on highway 41 passing through Brooksville, Masaryktown, Wilson Heights, Trojantown, and finally into Tampa.

The marchers’ progress can be tracked online at http://www.ourmarchtotampa.com/

Additionally, and the marchers will make daily call-ins to WYZB radio (which can be heard online at http://www.wyzb.com/common/page.php?pt=Air+Commando+Ruck+March&id=712&is_corp=0

Their goal is $50,000. The Special Operations Warrior Foundation scholarship fund allows children of fallen Special Operations personnel to attend college and honors the memory of those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country."The greatest measure of respect that we can bestow upon a fallen hero is to make sure their family is never forgotten," said John T. Carney, Jr., SOWF President. "These marchers are saying loud and clear that we will never forget the sacrifices of our fallen warriors and their families."

"The greatest measure of respect that we can bestow upon a fallen hero is to make sure their family is never forgotten," said John T. Carney, Jr., SOWF President. "These marchers are saying loud and clear that we will never forget the sacrifices of our fallen warriors and their families."

Air Force Capt. Kevin Johnson (left) and Nolan Peterson (below, right) will travel to the top of the world in April and, once the conditions are right, run 26.2 miles across the Arctic ice cap to raise money for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, a top-rated nonprofit organization that supports the families of fallen and wounded special operations personnel.

Johnson is a B1-B supersonic bomber instructor pilot with more than 1,100 hours of combat time over Afghanistan. Peterson is a former special operations pilot and combat veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan.

"Both Kevin and I have flown in combat and have seen firsthand what our special operations forces do on a daily basis,” said Peterson. "The money and publicity we hope to generate for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation by running a marathon at the North Pole is our way of honoring the heroism of these guys and to repay the sacrifice of their families."

The 2013 North Pole Marathon will be run at the geographic North Pole on an ice sheet some 6 - 12 feet thick above 12,000 feet of Arctic Ocean. Racers will be flown from the island of Svalbard to the North Pole in a Russian Antonov cargo jet specially equipped to land on the ice. Athletes will face extreme sub-zero temperatures, gale force winds and the threat of polar bears.

The Special Operations Warrior Foundation provides full college scholarships to the surviving children of fallen Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps special operations personnel. There are nearly 1,000 children in the program, ranging in age from newborn to young adult. Today there are some 150 students are enrolled in colleges and universities across the country.

"It is so heart-warming to see such dedication and support for our families of fallen warriors,” said John T. Carney, Jr., SOWF President. "Not only will the efforts of Nolan and Kevin raise awareness for the foundation’s programs, but it is a wonderful tribute to the men and women who have lost their lives while serving their country and a poignant reminder that their sacrifices will not be forgotten.”

Below:  Nolan Peterson pictured in Antartica after completing a marathon in 2010.

 Click here to support Nolan Peterson and Keith Johnson in their North Pole Marathon

- Blog: http://www.usafnorthpolemarathon.com

2013 North Pole Marathon official website: http://www.npmarathon.com

(New York Times) An elite Marine from Brooklyn who lost his left leg after an IED attack in Iraq hopes to hit a new high — climbing the steepest, most treacherous route on icy Mount Washington in New Hampshire.

Keith Zeier said he’s making the dangerous ascent to honor fellow soldiers who can’t."An IED explosion ended my career in the Marine Corps,” said Zeier, 26.

"[But] it has certainly not stripped me of the determination, perseverance and mental toughness I’ve gained.”

Zeier specifically hopes to raise awareness and funds for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, which gives money to the families of hospitalized soldiers and scholarships to children of those killed in combat.

"It’s a serious climb,” said seven-time Everest climber Andy Politz (pictured with Keith), who organized a 13-member group, Ascents of Honor, to accompany Zeier up Mount Washington’s ice-covered Huntington Ravine.

Zeier had first decided to join the Marines after the 9/11 attacks killed his best friend’s father, FDNY Lt. John Crisci. In 2004, at age 17, Zeier enlisted and joined the elite 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion.

Two years later, in Fallujah, he was blasted out of a Humvee and into unconsciousness. Shrapnel ripped through the muscle, nerve and bone of his left leg, and he suffered a traumatic brain injury and needed six surgeries to be stabilized.

Zeier was hospitalized for several more months at the US Naval Hospital in Bethesda, Md., and was told he wouldn’t walk without a cane. Soon, he ran a 100-mile race. The wounded warrior vomited during the first 75 miles, then collapsed on pavement. He got up, refused to be hospitalized, received an IV and ran another 25 miles to cross the finish line, holding a Marine Corps flag.

He raised more than $100,000 for his brethren.

"He’s strong, and he’s got all the heart you’d ever need,” said Politz, 53.

In 2010, Zeier’s leg had to be amputated because circulation in its nerves had died. He moves a little slower, but he refuses to sit still.

In August, Zeier found a passion for mountaineering, when he and Politz trudged up Mount Rainier in Washington state.

"We took 20 hours,” Politz said. "Keith is a really tough guy, but his prosthetic leg would punch through the snow, and we’d have to dig it out with a shovel. He can’t step through. He can only match the prosthetic leg to where the good leg went.

For every step we took, he took two.

”Zeier will have a new custom-made prosthesis for his January trek, which includes 700 feet of vertical ice climbing with axes. His team plans a rare sleepover in the weather observatory atop the Northeast’s most prominent mountain in some of the world’s worst weather.

Make a donation in support of Ascents of Honor

For those not familiar with Birdies for the Brave, it is the military outreach program of the PGA Tour. It began nearly 10 years ago with one golfer - Phil - and one charity: the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

Today, 18 players support nine charities that aid and assist military men and women and their families. 

Click here to watch the broadcast.

(Nov. 30) With a Black Hawk helicopter as a backdrop and two rows of golf carts standing ready in the distance, the Birdies for the Brave military appreciation gala and pro-am kicked off on a flawless Friday morning at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra, Fla.  The events benefitted nine military homefront groups, including the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

A who’s who of the game was in attendance, including the tournament host and Birdies for the Brave founder, Phil Mickelson, as well as the legendary Jack Nicklaus. Among the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour and LPGA TOUR pros competing in the two-day event are Mark O’Meara, David Duval, Vijay Singh, Fuzzy Zoeller, Juli Inkster and Hubert Green.

Servicemen and women in uniform were also in attendance for the opening ceremonies.

"When we look at this flag and what it represents, it comes with a high cost for many many soldiers, dating back from before this was actually a country, who sacrificed their lives to the current men and women of the military who put their lives on the line and at risk day in and day out," Mickelson said. "Our freedoms, our civil liberties and rights come with a great price.

"We all have a responsibility whether we’re on the front line or whether we’re a civilian to pay respects and to contribute all that we can to this great country to make sure that the men and women who do put their lives on the line day-in and day-out know how much we appreciate it and respect it and understand it and never take it for granted."

Jack Nicklaus, who said he is working on some golf course projects targeted for the military, has seen the need first-hand.

"I’ve been involved in quite a few of these types of events with the wounded warriors," he said, taking a break from posing for pictures to head to the range.

"Each one of them makes you feel good because you’re seeing the results and the people you’re helping. It gets to you down in your heart.

"And you say, these guys need some help and they do. … To be involved in these things, it makes you feel like maybe you’re contributing. You couldn’t go overseas but you contribute here.

"Shortly after Friday’s shotgun start, Phil Mickelson’s wife, Amy, also hosted a baby shower for 30 Jacksonville, Fla., area Navy wives who are expecting children while their husbands are deployed overseas. Also serving as a hostess was Cathy Justice, whose husband Jim owns The Greenbrier Resort, and special guests included Phil Mickelson’s mother Mary and Amy Mickelson’s mother Renee McBride.

Check out THE GOLF CHANNEL special presentation of the Birdies for the Brave event on DEC 12th at 7 pm (EST)

For more information on the Birdies for the Brave event, visit http://together.pgatour.com/

My name is Logan Fitzpatrick. I was born in Weisbaden, Germany in 1987 to Emily and Chuck Cooper. After a year of being stationed in Germany we moved as my father, Captain Charles Cooper was assigned to the 160th special operations aviation regiment known as the "Night Stalkers" in October of 1989. He served as 2nd flight platoon leader of Charlie Company, 1st battalion.

While stationed at Ft. Campbell Kentucky he was deployed many times, and in October 1990 he and the 1st battalion were deployed to the desert to fly special operations missions against the Iraqi regime. On February 21st, 1991 while serving as alternate air mission commander of a Blackhawk helicopter during Operation Desert Storm in Southwest Asia. He responded to a request for an urgent medical evacuation deep in enemy territory under zero illumination. He and the crew flew their aircraft at an extremely low altitude to evade the enemy air defense artillery threat. In spite of dense fog which made his night vision equipment useless, he continued his mission. By relying on experience and navigational instruments, he and his team were able to extract the badly wounded soldier. While returning to the medical facility, he encountered a sandstorm and lost visual reference with the ground. Their aircraft, #251, crashed and he selflessly gave his life for his country.

He was awarded the Silver Star and Distinguished Flying Cross for his extraordinary heroism on that day. He was survived by myself, my mother, and my sister Clare Fitzpatrick who is also a beneficiary of the SOWF scholarship. Growing up without a father was difficult -- I was 3 and my sister, 2.

My mother was a stay at home mom at the time, and we were living off base near Ft. Campbell Kentucky. I was just a young kid trying to grow up and enjoy life when suddenly everything changed. The rest of my childhood was not typical by any means as I remember more sad nights than happy ones. Life became uncertain and at a young age it seemed that any chance at normalcy was gone. It was hard seeing my mother sad all the time but there were glimmers of hope, support from the special operations community and the Special Operations Warrior Foundation were there.

As children we were contacted by the SOWF and they were able help us get through our difficult time, as well as introduce us to other children and families going through similar situations. As time went on, I grew up receiving birthday cards every year from them as we'll as help whenever I needed it. Finally when I started getting close to graduating high school the SOWF entered my life again. I met amazing people like Mr. Steve McLeary and Mrs. Edie Rosenthal that let me know that because of my father’s sacrifice, the foundation once again wanted to help. They told me that my father would have wanted me to go to school and the foundation wanted to give me that gift of education.

After graduating high school I attended George Mason University majoring in global affairs. My major was very interesting as I was able to study many subjects from foreign economic policies to terrorism, and throughout my years of schooling the SOWF was there every step of the way. I can't count the number of times I spoke with people from the up for classes, I will never be able to thank you all enough.

And going to school right outside DC was also nice as I was able to attend similar functions and meet a lot of you, the donors. You are all the reason this happens and your amazing gifts have helped me, and so many people like me. If it wasn't for people like you and the Special Operations Warrior Foundation the financial enormity of college may be out of reach for many families like my own.

I just wanted to say thank you all so much for everything you do and to please keep doing it. Thank you

Vince Gill and Darius Rucker along with SOWF supporter, Keni Thomas will perform Saturday, December 1, at The Times Union Center at the Moran Theatre. Golf Channel will cover the Pro-Am, host live interviews during its Morning Drive program from the event both mornings, and create a one-hour special to be aired at a later date.

To find additional information about the event, please visit the website at www.galaforb4b.org.

Okaloosa County is home to the men and women of the Air Force Special Operations Command, including several Special Operations Wings, and also the Army’s 7th Special Forces Group. The dinner will pay tribute to members of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps special operations personnel and their families.

Retired Air Force General Norton Schwartz, who recently retired as the 22nd Chief of Staff of the Air Force, will be the keynote speaker. Sharise Troup, one of the foundation’s scholarship recipients will also be a guest speaker. Sharise’s father, Sgt. 1st Class Jamie Nicholas, was killed by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan while assigned to the 7th Special Forces Group.

Entertainment will be provided by former Air Force Pararescueman, turned country music artist, Donovan Chapman.

"It will be an evening of remembrance and paying tribute to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom,” said the foundation’s president, retired Air Force Col. John T. Carney, Jr.

"It is also a night for reaffirming the foundation’s commitment,” he said, "a pledge made over 30 years ago to provide a college education to all surviving children of special operations personnel killed in combat or training.”

For more than 32 years, the top-rated Special Operations Warrior Foundation has provided scholarship funding for tuition, books, fees, room and board, and some personal expenses along with a laptop computer and printer. The foundation also provides immediate financial assistance to special operations personnel severely wounded in combat.

"It is important to remind our military that their community supports their efforts,” said Carney. "And in the case of the special operations community, if they lose their lives fighting for our freedom, they know the Warrior Foundation is here to provide for their children’s education.”

The dinner, which is being held at the Emerald Coast Convention Center in Fort Walton Beach, starts with a reception at 6:00 pm, followed by dinner and the program at 7:00 pm.

Dress for the event is business attire.

The Air Force Special Operations Command provides air support and battlefield airmen for Special Operations Forces around the globe. Also located at Hurlburt Field are the 1st Special Operations Wing and the 24th Special Operations Wing which provide specialized air power and special tactics forces in support of the AFSOC global mission. These units consist of over 7,000 military and more than 2,000 civilian personnel.

Nearby Eglin Air Force Base is home to the 919th Special Operations Wing, the only Air Force Reserve special operations wing. The 919th SOW provides specialized air power in support of the AFSOC mission and employs about 1,190 Air Force reservists.

The newly arrived Army's 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) also resides on Eglin Air Force Base. It consists of approximately 2,200 soldiers trained in unconventional warfare with specialized language and culture training for the region in which they operate.

Businesses are invited to attend to learn more about special operations personnel. Corporate tables are available starting at $2,500 and if interested, companies can purchase tables and donate seats for military guests.

For more information, please contact Lisa Henson or Edie Rosenthal at the Special Operations Warrior Foundation at (813) 805-9400 or email edie@specialops.org

(Sept 26) - On Thursday, Sept 27, Navy SEAL David Goggins will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the "Most Pull-Ups” in a 24-hour period to raise awareness and funds for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, a top-rated nonprofit organization supporting the families of fallen and wounded Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps Special Operations personnel.

Goggins’ efforts will be covered by Today on NBC, where a pull-up bar is being installed so his progress can be monitored throughout the show on Thursday and on Friday morning for the finale. The current Guinness record for the number of pull-ups is 4,020 by Stephen Hyland, set on July 23, 2011, at his personal gym in Stoneleigh, UK.

Goggins will appear on Today from 8:00 am – 8:30 am (EST) when he kicks off his 24-hour period of pull-ups. The show will monitor the pull-ups and have the finale on Friday between 8:00 am – 8:30 am.

If anyone can break this record, it is David Goggins. As a Navy SEAL, ultramarathon runner and Ironman competitor - plus a veteran of numerous other endurance races - Goggins often puts himself into situations that he doesn’t like and pushes himself to extreme limits to raise funds for a charity he is passionate about, the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

In 2005, several of Goggins’ fellow Navy SEALs were killed in a helicopter crash during a mission in Afghanistan. To honor them, he vowed to raise money for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, which ensures a full college education to the children of fallen special operations personnel. Goggins rationalized that to raise money, he would have to do something extreme and phenomenal — not to mention downright painful.

He says that after he went on the Internet and "Googled the 10 hardest events in the world”, he found the Badwater Ultramarathon, a legendary 135-mile race through Death Valley, CA.

In 2007, with little distance running under his belt, David finished 3rd place at the grueling Badwater Ultramarathon, and the running world took notice. Although he admits he hates running, David continued to push himself by competing in other ultramarathons to raise awareness for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, always keeping in mind the sacrifices of his fallen brothers.

One year later, in recognition of his philanthropic efforts, Runners’ World magazine named David Goggins a "Hero of Running”.

To show your support of David Goggins, visit online http://www.firstgiving.com/pullupsforSOWF

To learn more about David Goggins, watch this video interview,  http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid416421194?bctid=2239133001

(TAMPA, Sept. 13) Past and present members of the U.S. military’s Special Operations community along with numerous representatives from corporations and the Tampa Bay community gathered at the A La Carte reception hall here to honor America’s most elite fighting forces.

The "Tribute to Special Operations Forces,” hosted by the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, is an annual dinner that draws nearly 500 guests, including several high-ranking military officers and civilian leaders, and family members of fallen special operations personnel.

Retired Colonel John T. Carney, Jr. started out the evening by reading a letter from one of the foundation’s scholarship recipients, Jessica Coleman, the daughter of Army Master Sgt. Mark Coleman, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2010 while assigned to the 1st Special Forces Group. Jessica started her Freshman year at St. Martin University.

She wrote, "I absolutely love the cards (the foundation) has sent me for Christmas, my birthday, and graduation. Your organization is one of the most thoughtful I have ever encountered… My dad would be absolutely blown away with your kindness.”

Col. Carney then showed the audience the foundation’s latest informational video that featured a number of beneficiaries.  Click here to watch the SOWF video

Recently retired Army Gen. Ann Dunwoody, former Commander, Army Materiel Command, set up the evening with her remarks and introduction of Army SFC Leroy Petry.

SFC Petry was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in combat while deployed to Afghanistan with the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. His Ranger squad was heavily engaged with enemy forces and he was severely wounded in both legs. But when a grenade landed only feet away from his team, SFC Petry, unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his own safety, picked up the grenade and tossed it away from his team. As he was releasing the grenade, it detonated amputating his right hand. Although grievously wounded, he continued to maintain a presence of mind and continued to relay radio communications to coordinate support for the team.

Other distinguished military personnel included fellow Medal of Honor recipient, Command Sgt. Major Gary Littrell, who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in Vietnam in 1970.

Also recognized were Phil and Maureen Miller, the parents of Army Staff Sgt. Robert Miller, who lost his life in Iraq in 2008 and was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously for his heroic actions.

Special Operations Warrior Foundation success story, Amy Horstman-Ingram, charmed the crowd with her vocal talent by performing several songs throughout the evening, including the National Anthem. Amy is the daughter of Army Special Forces Capt. Randi Horstman, who lost his life in a training accident in 1989. Through the SOWF, Amy was able to get a degree in vocal performance from the University of Alaska. She read a moving letter that her mother had written the year of Randi’s death that talked about how proud they were of his accomplishment as a Special Forces officer. Amy concluded her remarks by thanking SOWF for making it possible for her and her brother to go to college.

Special thanks are due to the evening’s Master of Ceremonies, Tampa Bay broadcast personality, Dick Crippen, who presided with good humor, and also to the staff of the A La Carte Event Pavilion for their superb service and food.

The bottom line for the informative and entertaining evening raised $450,000 was raised through the generosity of many corporate sponsors, including:

     A La Carte Event Pavilion

     New York Yankees

     Pinch A Penny

    See list of sponsors here

With more than 140 students currently in college and universities across the country, and another 600 children who have yet to reach college age, the funds raised will go directly to support the foundation’s programs for ensuring full college educations to the children of fallen warriors and also financial stipends to severely wounded special operations personnel.

To date, the SOWF has seen 213 of its students graduate from post-secondary school.

The following individuals have accomplished a major milestone in their life, and join the rank of college graduate alumni.  Congratulations!

 Alexandra Boyles (left) graduated from Marshall University in July with a bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design. She is the daughter of Army Lt. Col. Timothy Boyles, who lost his life in a training accident in 1999 while assigned to the 3rd Special Forces Group.

Jacob Healy Centeno graduated from the University of San Diego in August with a bachelor’s degree in Architecture. He is the son of Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer Daniel Healy who lost his life in Afghanistan in 2005 while assigned to SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team One.

Logan Fitzpatrick (Cooper) graduated in June from George Mason University with a bachelor’s degree in Global Affairs. He is the son of Army Capt. Charles Cooper who lost his life in Iraq in 1991 while assigned to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment.

Jennifer Fester graduated in May from St. Leo University with a degree in Communications. She is the daughter of Army Maj. Gregory Fester who lost his life in Iraq in 2005 while assigned to the 490th Civil Affairs Battalion.

Jourdan Fontan graduated in May from the University of Louisiana - LaFayette with a bachelor’s degree in Accounting. She is the daughter of Navy Chief Petty Officer Jacques Fontan who lost his life in Afghanistan in 2005 while assigned to SEAL Team 10.

Jennifer Holley graduated in May from the Academy of Art University with a degree in Fashion Design. She is the daughter of Air Force Lt. Col. Anson Holley who lost his life in Afghanistan in 2005 while assigned to the 711th Special Operations Squadron. Jennifer has a fashion website. Check it out at sprinklemefancy.com

Tori Johnson graduated in May from Gonzaga University with a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations. She is the daughter of Air Force Tech. Sgt. Robert Johnson who lost his life in Puerto Rico in 2002 while assigned to the 15th Special Operations Squadron.

Dalia Munoz graduated from Davidson College in May with a bachelor’s degree in Religion. She is the daughter of Army Spec. Pedro Munoz, who lost his life in Afghanistan in 2005 while assigned to the 7th Special Forces Group.

Sharise Nicholas Troup graduated from Davidson College in May with a bachelor’s degree in Criminology. She is the daughter of Army Sgt. 1st Class Jamie Nicholas, who lost his life in Afghanistan in 2008 while assigned to the 7th Special Forces Group.

Danielle Walker (left) graduated in May from the University of North Carolina-Wilmington with a bachelor’s degree in Communications. She is the daughter of Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Terrell Walker, who lost his life in 2000 while assigned to the Naval Special Warfare Command.

The top-rating was awarded after an evaluation of the foundation’s fiscal management, commitment to accountability and transparency.

"Only 2% of the charities we rated have received at least seven consecutive 4-star evaluations, indicating the Special Operations Warrior Foundation outperforms most other charities in America,” said Ken Berger, Charity Navigator President & CEO.

"This ‘exceptional’ designation differentiates the Special Operations Warrior Foundation from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust.”

The Special Operations Warrior Foundation has been supporting the families of fallen and wounded Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps special operations personnel for over 32 years. The foundation provides two primary programs: College scholarships and educational counseling to the children of fallen special operations personnel. Scholarships include tuition, books, fees, room & board, laptop and printer. The SOWF also provides immediate financial assistance to severely wounded special operations personnel so their family ones could be bedside during their loved one’s recovery.

Today, the SOWF has 942 children in its program with 140 students currently enrolled in colleges and universities across the country. The foundation has provided over $10 million in scholarship grants and educational counseling, but the foundation offers more than a financial grant.

"What makes us different from other scholarship organizations is that we proactively reach out to all of our students and work with them to get them into school," said SOWF President, John T. Carney, Jr.

"Each of our student’s plans is customized and personalized to meet the student’s needs.”

The foundation has provided over $1.5 million in financial assistance to severely wounded special operations personnel. The stipends offered help off-set the burden of unexpected expenses.

The Special Operations Warrior Foundation relies of financial gifts from the general public or through a variety of fundraising events as it does not receive funding from the federal or state government.

"We are honored to receive this esteemed rating from Charity Navigator,” said Carney. "Whether a donation is $10 or $1 million, we know that those funds are coming from a giving public who agree that we can never do enough to recognize or reward the sacrifices of our fallen Special Operations personnel. Since our inception 32 years ago, our board has always placed the highest value on financial accountability and transparency.”

About Charity Navigator
Charity Navigator is the largest charity evaluator in America and its website attracts more visitors than all other charity rating groups combined. The organization helps guide intelligent giving by evaluating the Financial Health and Accountability & Transparency of nearly 5,500 charities. Charity Navigator accepts no advertising or donations from the organizations it evaluates, ensuring unbiased evaluations, nor does it charge the public for this trusted data. As a result, Charity Navigator, a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization itself, depends on support from individuals, corporations and foundations that believe it provides a much-needed service to America's charitable givers. Based in Glen Rock, N.J., Charity Navigator can be reached at (201) 818-1288 or www.charitynavigator.org.

Even service personnel who are deployed can take part in this challenging event, which is held in February in the Florida Panhandle, via the Military Shadow Run.

Get all the details at the event website.

Within days of his death, the first letter to Logan arrived. Then the next one followed. The letters told of the sorrow of losing a friend and colleague, but also related stories of his time with fellow combat controllers, or of his time at the Air Force Academy. Each letter weaves an enduring portrait for a little boy, now 7, of a father who was taken too soon.

Compiled and written by Deb Argel-Bastian, the mother of Capt. Derek Argel, and grandmother to Logan, this heart-wrenching book, takes you through an extraordinary journey of her son’s life.

"So many people have lost loved ones and the ripple extends so far beyond family," she said. "All these people we've lost, they're remembered as casualties. They all had a life. They all deserve to have their stories be told."

Brandon Lingle, who counted Capt. Argel among his best friends while growing up in Lompoc, Calif. was compelled to write a letter for Logan.

"Just like the book's other contributors, I wanted to do what I could to help ensure Derek's life beyond his military service wouldn't fade away," explained Maj. Brandon Lingle, a public affairs officer for Air Combat Command who is deployed in Afghanistan.

"He was an extraordinary man with an amazing story. I hope my words help Logan gain a sense of who his father was outside of the Air Force and war."

Proceeds from this book will go to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, a top-rated nonprofit organization that supports the families of fallen and wounded special operations personnel. The foundation provides full scholarship grants, educational and family counseling to the surviving children of special operations personnel who die in operational or training missions, and immediate financial assistance to severely wounded special operations personnel and their families.

"Letters for Logan is an amazing way to make sure everyone knows who Logan’s father was and that he will never be forgotten,” said John T. Carney, Jr., SOWF President.

The Special Operations Warrior Foundation has more than 900 surviving children of fallen special operators in its program, including some 140 students who are enrolled in colleges and universities across the country.

"I think about all the kids who will say 'I don't know my dad," explained Deb Argel-Bastian. "Logan, thanks to these people, will know his dad. Through them, Logan will know his dad.”

"Letter for Logan" can be purchased online at barnes & Noble, Amazon or from the publisher Author House.

click here for the book at Amazon.com

The New York Yankees paid tribute to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation and to the men and women serving in the United States Armed Forces on Saturday, June 9, prior to and during the Yankees vs. the New York Mets game.

As part of the 12th annual Yankee Stadium Military Appreciation Ceremony, the Army’s premier aerial demonstration team, the Golden Knights, got the crowd rev’d up for the game by skydiving into the stadium flying each of the military service flags and the NY Yankee flag.

Following the jump, the Yankees honored several family members of fallen special operations warriors:

Cristina Davis, (right) is the daughter of Army Special Forces Master Sgt. Jefferson "JD” Davis who lost his life in Afghanistan in 2001 while deployed with the 5th Special Forces Group. Cristina attended the University of Tennessee and graduated with a degree in Psychology. She currently lives in Missouri.

Michelle Blessinger is the daughter of Air Force special operator Staff Sgt. John Blessinger who lost his life in Saudi Arabia in 1991 while assigned to the 16th Special Operations Squadron. Michelle is currently majoring in Nursing at Pierce College in Tacoma, Washington.

Nicole Goldsmith is the sister of Army Special Forces Staff Sgt. Wyatt Goldsmith who lost his life in Afghanistan in 2011 while assigned to the 1st Special Forces Group.

Scott and Kathryn Blais are the son and daughter of Navy SEAL Lt. Cmdr. Rock Blais who lost his life in 2001. Scott and Kathryn are currently attending St. Francis College.

Additionally, all Yankees players wore a special ballcap in celebration of Military Appreciation Day. Encompassing the same official base color as a normal Yankees cap, the "NY” logo was filled with a digital camouflage appliqué, part of MLB’s redesign of the traditional red, white and blue color scheme used in prior "stars and stripes” caps.

Yankees outfielder Nick Swisher went a step further by donning a pair of limited edition, military-inspired custom cleats by New Balance. The game-worn cleats, primarily black in color, feature camouflage accents and details with elements honoring 68 Whiskey, a military occupational specialty for healthcare specialists in the U.S. Army.

The cleats worn by Swisher, as well as the special ballcaps worn by Yankees players, was part of two larger auction packages offered by Steiner Sports, with proceeds benefitting the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

The Yankees also welcomed Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Ramon Colon-Lopez who threw out the game’s ceremonial first pitch. An Air Force para-rescueman, Chief Colon-Lopez is a Bronx native who is currently the Command Chief for the 1st Special Operations Wing in Hurlburt Field in Florida.

In 2004, he was deployed to Afghanistan to prevent the proliferation of chemical weapons and to capture a drug kingpin who was funding terrorism. Colon-Lopez was on the first of four helicopters, which took sustained small-arms fire and was seriously damaged as it landed. Though he did not know the size of the enemy force, Colon-Lopez moved forward under fire, overrunning the enemy positions. His action suppressed enemy fire against the other three helicopters. He and the team drove the enemy away, killed two of the enemy, captured 10 and destroyed a stash of rocket propelled grenade (RPG) rounds and small caliber weapons. Because of their quick reaction and suppression of the danger facing them, no Americans were killed.

As a result of his heroic actions, Colon-Lopez was awarded the Bronze Star with valor and the newly created Air Force Combat Action Medal. He was the only Hispanic amongst the first six airmen to be awarded this honor.

Former U.S. Army Elite Task Force Ranger Keni Thomas – a member of the Army unit that fought at the Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia in 1993, which was later depicted in the film Black Hawk Down – sang the national anthem.

The West Point Honor Guard presented the colors and Master Sergeant Mary Kay Messenger of the West Point Band performed "God Bless America” during the seventh-inning stretch.

The Special Operations Warrior Foundation presented two framed flags that were flown over Afghanistan. Hal Steinbrenner and Neal Friedman were both presented the flags for their continued support of the families of fallen warriors.

Swisher will wear New Balance military-inspired custom product Saturday, June 9, 2012. The military-inspired product will be auctioned off with all proceeds going to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

"My grandfather was a military man who fought in the Korean War, so I’ve always been a supporter of the military. And after a visit to our armed forces in Afghanistan, this cause means even more to me,” say Swisher.

Swisher’s military-inspired custom product will be auctioned off at http://auction.steinersports.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/CategoryDisplay?cgrfnbr=171008921&cgmenbr=55076099&noMoreSubs=Y

The auction is currently live and will run through June 15, 2012 at 10 p.m.

The Special Operations Warrior Foundation supports the families of fallen and wounded Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps special operations personnel. The SOWF provides full college scholarships to surviving children, as well as immediate financial assistance to severely wounded special operations personnel and their families.

"This partnership will not only honor the men and women who have lost their lives fighting for our freedom, but it will also serve as a reminder to their families that their sacrifices are not forgotten," said John T. Carney, Jr., SOWF President.

New Balance will also launch a new collection of Nick Swisher t-shirts for men and women. Designed in collaboration with Swisher, the t-shirts will retail for $33.00 and 100% of the proceeds will go to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

The shirt will be available exclusively at New Balance NYC (150 5th Ave).

To hear more about Nick Swisher’s support of the military, visit http://www.newbalance.com/Baseball-Media-Center and

www.facebook.com/NewBalanceBaseball and follow @NB_Baseball on Twitter.

About New Balance

New Balance, headquartered in Boston, MA has the following mission: Demonstrating responsible leadership, we build global brands that athletes are proud to wear, associates are proud to create and communities are proud to host. New Balance is currently the only athletic shoe company that manufactures footwear in the U.S. with 25% of our U.S. footwear shipments produced at five New England facilities. The company also operates a manufacturing facility in Flimby, U.K. New Balance employs more than 4000 associates around the globe, and in 2011 reported worldwide sales of $2.04 billion. To learn more about how New Balance Makes Excellent Happen, please visit http://www.newbalance.com.