Inspiring tour given at the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum emphasizing leadership by example, courageous action in aerial combat, and word of encouragement given to the next generation from twice shot down Huey pilot “Mr. Gil,” Distinguished Flying Cross recipient, who flew medevac missions in Vietnam.

Paintball excursion emphasized communicate and maneuver, trigger discipline, and overcoming apprehension of being shot in order to achieve flanking fire.

Valor had a great event hiking approximately 4 miles to Little Hunting Island and ventured into the surf. We had the opportunity to connect with participants from “Focused Living” a men’s ministry out of Columbia, SC. We closed out the event by attending the “Wreaths Across America” ceremony at Beaufort National Cemetery.

Overnight campout and successful day surf fishing on the barrier islands of the Lowcountry. Fishing skills on casting techniques, bait selection, line rigging and rod monitoring were emphasized. Small arms shooting, food preparation, fire building and basic fish camp duties were accomplished.

Successful night gigging with Noah Marquardt and Charlie Sprietsma, first time opportunity for many. Learned about tides, water visibility, boat approach, light configuration, and fish cleaning. Discussed being prepared for uncertain environments and maintaining a steadfast and faithful mindset.

Shared lessons learned on the paintball course at “Hoppers” followed by tour and sea stories given at Coast Guard Air Station Savannah. Character tie-in from Medal of Honor recipient Roy Benavidez considering his courageous acts and two perspectives as a Casualty or Rescuer. John 15:13 - “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”

Inside perspective of VMFAT-501 Warlords F-35B training squadron at MCAS Beaufort and fantastic F-35B demonstration executed. Observed first hand the people and equipment that make up a Marine Fighter/Attack squadron. Young men met with Marine aviators and maintenance personnel broadening their horizons for vocational opportunities within the uniformed service.

Remote overnight campout on Fenwick Island. Boat landing, campsite setup, flint fire starting, island nature hike with machetes, capture the flag and frisbee.

Paintball event near Savannah GA. Day filled with close competition, lessons on maintaining functional equipment, fire and maneuver, clear field of fire, and directive communication learned. Fun camaraderie day with emphasis on winning.

Rifle range shooting opportunity followed by overnight campout supported by OPFOB. Introduction to firearm safety rules and marksmanship with varying rifles and sidearms. Character focus on “Rifleman’s Creed” and making the most of opportunities.

VALOR Event Hunting Island

Planning, Preparation, Execution, Evaluation