News

Operation Healing Forces’ ‘The New Playbook’ Event Raises Over $1.5 Million for Special Operations Families

April 9, 2025

By: Margaux Rowan

Operation Healing Forces (OHF) is pleased to share the success of The New Playbook Benefit Dinner & Forum, held on March 10, 2025, at The Ritz-Carlton in Naples. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, sponsors, and matching donors, the event raised more than $1.5 million to support life-changing programs for wounded and catastrophically ill Special Operations Forces (SOF) service members, veterans, families, and caregivers.

The elegant evening brought together a diverse group of community leaders, military advocates, and patriotic supporters united by one cause: to uplift and empower the families of America’s most elite warriors. From start to finish, the energy in the room suggested a shared mission to honor and serve those who have selflessly defended our nation.

Because OHF’s Board of Directors covers all overhead and administrative costs, nearly 100% of the funds are expected to go directly to programs that provide critical financial resources in times of hardship and to therapeutic retreats that have been shown to help SOF families heal and reconnect. These initiatives aim not only to address immediate needs but also to support long-term resilience and emotional well-being within military households.

Operation Healing Forces’ ‘The New Playbook’ Event Raises Over $1.5 Million for Special Operations Families — Photo Courtesy: Operation Healing Forces (OHF Board Secretary Robert McBride, Scott Robertson)

One of the evening’s most memorable moments came from OHF Alumni guests Sergeant First Class Brant and Tanya Ireland. Brant, a combat-wounded Green Beret who had his leg amputated as a result of his injuries, shared how an OHF Therapeutic Couples Retreat played a key role in helping their marriage and kept their family together when the challenges of war had them on the brink of divorce. Now, as they prepare to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary, their story illustrates the potential impact of OHF’s programs. Their heartfelt testimony moved the audience and served as a powerful example of the difference that support, understanding, and dedicated resources can make in the lives of SOF families.

“Stories like Brant and Tanya’s are why OHF exists,” said Kerry Irvin, CEO of Operation Healing Forces. “This event was not just about raising funds—it was about raising hope and fostering healing, with the goal of ensuring these warriors and their families, who have sacrificed so much on behalf of our nation, receive the support they deserve.”

The evening also featured a compelling sports forum moderated by PGA Champion and NBC/Golf Channel Analyst Peter Jacobsen. Panelists Gary Danielson (CBS Sports), Carla Williams (University of Virginia Athletic Director), and Tony Bennett (renowned basketball coach) engaged in a lively discussion on the future of NCAA sports, the impact of NIL policies, and the transfer portal. Their insights provided guests with valuable perspectives on leadership, teamwork, and navigating change—topics that often resonate far beyond the playing field.

“As a longtime advocate for our military families, I am deeply moved by what we achieved at this event,” said Robert McBride, OHF Executive Board Member. “The generosity in the room was remarkable and reflects our shared commitment to those who serve.”

OHF extends its deepest gratitude to all who attended and contributed to making The New Playbook a notable success. Your support helps ensure that we can continue serving those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.

For more information on Operation Healing Forces and how to support its mission, visit operationhealingforces.org.