In July, the Special Operations Adventure Foundation (SOAF) will compete in the Backroads of Appalachia Foundation’s **Appalachian 1000**—a grueling 72-hour, 1,000-mile motorcycle endurance rally through the rugged terrain of Appalachia, culminating in West Virginia. This event tests physical endurance, mental resilience, navigation, and teamwork—qualities deeply familiar to Special Operations veterans.
SOAF is participating in the Appalachian 1000 to raise national awareness for the unique challenges faced by Special Operations veterans as they transition from military service to civilian life. While these warriors represent a small fraction of the total force, they have carried a disproportionate share of combat deployments and casualties over the past 25 years. The loss of mission, structure, and tight-knit teams often leaves veterans struggling to reconnect, reintegrate, and rediscover purpose after service.
Adventure-based challenges like the Appalachian 1000 mirror the environments in which Special Operations veterans thrive—demanding focus, adaptability, and mutual trust. By competing in this rally, SOAF aims to highlight the power of shared hardship and adventure as tools for healing, connection, and renewed purpose.
To make this mission possible, SOAF is seeking support to offset the significant logistical costs of participation. These include transporting motorcycles and personnel from Colorado to West Virginia, motorcycle maintenance and repairs, fuel, lodging, food, and basic operational expenses throughout the rally. All funds raised will directly support our participation in the Appalachian 1000 and further SOAF’s mission to reconnect Special Operations veterans with challenge, community, and purpose.
By supporting this effort, donors and sponsors are not only backing a demanding endurance event—they are standing behind the men and women who have sacrificed for our nation and helping ensure they do not face the transition to civilian life alone.
