NSOF NEWSLETTER | QUARTER 2, 2026
- Jul 17
- 4 min read
CONNECTION BEYOND THE GALA
Moments of gathering highlight just how connected the Navy Special Operations community truly is. In the weeks following our annual Gala, we’re reminded how community extends far beyond a single event. NSOF’s mission remains the same - supporting the NSO community for life while honoring its legacy.
On Saturday, June 6th, Navy EOD and Navy Diver community members and supporters joined us at the 8th Annual NSOF Benefit Gala in Virginia Beach, VA.
Thanks to the enormous generosity of our attendees, sponsors, donors, and volunteers, the event generated more than $225,000 to support NSOF programs serving Navy EOD and Navy Diver warriors and their families.
NSO COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
“It’s a tight-knit, family oriented community made up of people from every walk of life"
As the 2026 NSOF Excellence in Action Award recipient, EODCS Troy Padmore reflects on the people, purpose, and responsibility that define the Navy Special Operations community.
After 16 years in the Navy Special Operations community, EODCS Troy Padmore says what has stood out most isn't just the mission, but the people. From the camaraderie found across every platoon to the examples set by those who came before him, he describes a community built on shared purpose, relentless work ethic, and a commitment to one another.
For Troy, being part of this community is both humbling and a heavy responsibility. "Legends have paid the ultimate sacrifice," he says. "I am humbled and honored to be a part of this community... This community houses straight legends, silent professionals who don't even talk about what they have done."
UPCOMING EVENTS
ROTA EOD MEMORIAL AUCTION
Saturday, July 25th
The Rota EOD Memorial Auction returns on July 25, bringing the Navy EOD community together once again to honor those we've lost while supporting those who continue to serve. Featuring generous donations from individuals and businesses, 100% of proceeds benefit EODWF and the Navy Special Operations Foundation.
With more than $178,000 raised to date, this event continues to make a real difference for the NSO Operators and Families we serve!
On behalf of everyone at NSOF, thank you to everyone at EODMU8, the organizers, donors, sponsors, and all who support this incredible event. We are grateful for your continued partnership and dedication to our Navy EOD community.
NSOF FAMILY WEEKEND GETAWAY
Saturday, Sept 19th - Sunday, Sept 20th
We're excited to once again bring Navy EOD and Navy Diver families together for one of NSOF's most popular annual programs! This September, 60 families across both coasts will enjoy a fun-filled weekend at Great Wolf Lodge, creating lasting memories together. Registration is now open, so don't wait to reserve your spot!
KING CRAB COMPETITION
Monday, Aug 24th - Friday, Aug 28th
The Navy EOD community's premier tactical competition is heading to the West Coast! King Crab brings together top EOD operators from across the fleet to compete in a series of physically and mentally demanding challenges that test the full spectrum of their operational capabilities. We wish all competitors the best of luck as they vie for this year's coveted King Crab title!
EODGRU TWO FAMILY DAY
Friday, Aug 14th
NSOF is proud to support the EODGRU2 Family Day, an event we’ve been dedicated to for years. Bringing families together and celebrating the strength of our community is at the heart of what we do! And by popular demand, our much loved NSOF Flag T-shirt will be available for purchase, so be sure to stop by and grab yours while supplies last!
DID YOU KNOW?
Did you know the Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) was established nearly 100 years ago?
The Navy formed the Experimental Diving Unit in 1927 following submarine disasters in the 1920s that exposed shortcomings in the Navy's rescue and recovery capabilities. NEDU's work has since significantly improved the depth, duration, and safety of Navy diving operations.
WHAT WE'RE UP TO
During the 2026 NSOF Benefit Gala, NSOF recognized outstanding members of the Navy Special Operations community through its inaugural Community Recognition Awards.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S RECIPIENTS!
Excellence in Action: EODCS TROY PADMORE
Legacy of Valor: EODCS MICHAEL HARRIS
Community Impact Award: EODMU TWO
These awards honor individuals and units whose leadership, service, and contributions have made a lasting impact on the Navy EOD and Navy Diver community.
NSOF is proud to partner with Bulova on the limited-edition NEOD MIL-SHIPS timepiece, created exclusively for the Navy EOD community. Inspired by Bulova's historic MIL-SHIPS prototype developed for the U.S. Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) in the 1950s, this special edition honors the legacy of Navy EOD while helping support NSOF's mission. Proceeds from each watch sold directly benefit NSOF programs serving the Navy EOD and Navy Diver community.
This year, we awarded James E. Reyher Legacy scholarships to three outstanding students pursuing their educational goals. The scholarship program recognizes academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to service while helping members in the NSO community further their education.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S RECIPIENTS!
$1,000 Awarded to: DYLAN SMITH
$500 Awarded to: ADELINE FINGER
$500 Awarded to: VIRGINIA PALMER
Since the start of the year, NSOF has received 21 support requests from across the NSO community. Whether providing immediate support during times of need or helping families navigate longer term challenges, NSOF remains committed to serving warriors and their families.
GRATITUDE CORNER
Thank You For Your Support
Every program, event, and opportunity highlighted in this newsletter is possible because of the generosity of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and community partners. Thank you to our 2026 NSOF Benefit Gala sponsors, silent auction donors, and everyone who continues to invest in the Navy EOD and Navy Diver community. Your support makes a lasting difference, and we are truly grateful.
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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