NSOF NEWSLETTER | QUARTER 1, 2026
- Navy Special Operations Foundation
- Mar 19
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
WHO WE ARE
The Navy Special Operations community is defined by service, sacrifice, and connection. NSOF’s mission is to support that community for life and honor its legacy. This quarterly newsletter offers a look at the people and moments that continue to fuel our work.
NSO COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
“They could be anything, but they chose this.”
Pat McLean’s path into the Navy Special Operations community started with what he calls “pure luck,” but it became a lifetime shaped by the people around him.
“I could dive, parachute, and blow stuff up. Sold!” he says. “In every case I was always surrounded by superstars… EOD Techs, Divers and support personnel alike were all amazing.”
That humility is what defines the community. “They perform heroic feats, but never seek glory. They’d rather heap praise upon the exploits of a teammate than brag about their own.”
At its core, the community is built on something even simpler: trust. “From that day on… we are never alone.” It’s a mindset that carries through every stage of service and beyond, grounded in accountability and a deep commitment to one another.
UPCOMING EVENTS
An Evening of Impact
Join us in Virginia Beach for an unforgettable evening in support of the Navy Special Operations community. Your presence helps fuel the programs our warriors and families rely on.
DID YOU KNOW?
Did you know Navy EOD traces its formal beginning to World War II?
Before WWII, the U.S. Navy had no official bomb or mine disposal program — early ordnance hazards were simply handled by the most experienced personnel available. In 1941, the first naval Mine Disposal School was created in Washington, D.C., which later became the foundation of the Navy’s EOD community.
WHAT WE'RE UP TO
NSOF COMMUNITY RECOGNITION AWARDS
For decades, many of the community’s most significant contributions have taken place quietly, often going unrecognized outside of the platoons and commands where they occurred. Through peer-driven nominations, these awards ensure that the remarkable missions, leadership, sacrifices, and lasting impact of Navy Special Operations Warriors are properly acknowledged & recognized.
SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY
Since the start of the year, NSOF has responded to over 10 support requests from across the Navy Special Operations community. From immediate assistance to long term support, our team remains committed to standing alongside those who serve and their families.
LAUNCHING OUR NEW WEBSITE
NSOF recently launched a new website designed to better share our mission, programs, and impact with the community. The updated site makes it easier for supporters to learn about Navy Special Operations, request assistance, and stay connected with the Foundation.
PREPARING FOR THE 2026 NSOF GALA
Planning is underway for the 2026 NSOF Benefit Gala in Virginia Beach. This annual event brings the community together to celebrate Navy Special Operations and raise critical funds that support NSOF programs and services.
JAMES E. REYHER LEGACY SCHOLARSHIP
Applications for the 2026 James E. Reyher Legacy Scholarship are currently open. The scholarship supports members of the Navy Special Operations community and their families in pursuing higher education. Applications are due April 15.
GRATITUDE CORNER
Thank You For Your Support
Thank you to our 2026 NSOF Benefit Gala sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor R3 Strategic Support Group, Gold Sponsor Bulova, and Silver Sponsor SeeByte. Thank you as well to our silent auction donors and all who have contributed so far this year. Your support directly fuels the programs and assistance our community relies on.
WAYS TO SUPPORT
Supporting Navy Special Operations Foundation is easy and impactful! Whether through a direct donation, Donor Advised Funds, or earmarking a gift to a specific program, your generosity ensures our Navy EOD and Diver Community is supported for years to come!
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