The Ascend Together Initiative (ATI) continually seeks out meaningful partnerships with organizations making profound impacts in our communities. In the final quarter of 2024, ATI proudly partnered with Memorial Valor Foundation (formerly Memorial 3 Gun Foundation), an organization dedicated to honoring fallen Special Operations heroes and supporting their Gold Star Families through community-driven events.
Memorial Valor Foundation's mission is clear and unwavering—to remember, honor, and memorialize fallen Special Operators by providing support to their Gold Star families, and the SOF families whose loved one is no longer with us. They achieve this through annual flagship events like the Memorial 3-Gun Competition, along with newly introduced galas, golf tournaments, and skeet shoots. Each event uniquely commemorates heroes by sharing their stories, celebrating their legacies, and providing vital support to their families. As one supporter, Becky, shared, she "can't think of a more fitting way to celebrate the lives of those who have given their life in service of others than doing something they loved with their families and friends."
In October 2024, the Memorial Valor Foundation hosted its 7th Annual Memorial 3-Gun Competition, a three-day, ten-stage event that honored ten fallen Special Operations heroes. The event culminated in an emotionally powerful Honoree Ceremony on Sunday evening, reminding families and participants alike that these heroes are never forgotten.
Participants spoke about the deep connections formed throughout the weekend; Jeffrey, a Memorial 3 Gun Ambassador, reflected that the match is "filled with impactful moments... meeting the Gold Star Families and sharing the stories of their loved ones," and emphasized that "those relationships don't end when the match ends."
Beyond the competition itself, many attendees found personal meaning in their roles. Patrick, a supporter, described how he "had the honor and privilege to run stage 8," which honored James Patton, a hero he deeply admired. He shared that he "tried to run every competitor fairly and evenly, worthy of honoring this great American," embodying the spirit of respect and dedication that defines the event.
The impact of the Memorial Valor Foundation extends far beyond competition. Their events create a profound sense of community, healing, and mutual support. Participants and Gold Star Families connect deeply, forging bonds that continue well beyond individual events.
Throughout Q4 2024, Terra Arma was honored to support the Memorial Valor Foundation through financial donations and media amplification, ensuring their critical mission reached wider audiences. This partnership highlighted our shared values—integrity, resilience, and community-driven support—by elevating the stories and sacrifices of fallen heroes and their families.
Partnering with the Memorial Valor Foundation has deeply reinforced our belief in the power of community and the necessity of remembrance. These heroes and their families have given so much. It is our honor to share in the responsibility of ensuring their legacies continue to inspire.
As we move into 2025, the Memorial Valor Foundation is expanding its outreach, introducing new events including galas and golf tournaments, aiming to further support and raise awareness for Gold Star Families. To stay involved and updated, please visit their official website: memorialvalor.com.
— Adam Green, Communications Director, Terra Arma
After stepping away from the Navy in 1985 to pursue civilian life, Don soon realized that the challenges, camaraderie, and sense of purpose within the SEAL Teams were irreplaceable. He returned to the Naval Special Warfare Community in 1988, sharpening his skills at the Defense Language Institute for Spanish before joining SEAL Team FOUR. His deployments took him across the globe, including missions in the Persian Gulf and Panama, where he served with Naval Special Warfare Unit EIGHT.
