Ridgeland Hosts Heartwarming Reunion for Veterans at OPFOB Gala
This past November 9th, Hilton Head Island buzzed with excitement as a local organization in Ridgeland brought together two veterans in a truly unforgettable way. The annual gala for Operation Patriots Forward Base (OPFOB) turned out to be much more than just an evening of recognition and celebration; it was a night of unexpected surprises and emotional reunions.
Strengthening Bonds Among Veterans
OPFOB has made it its mission to preserve the lives of veterans and first responders while addressing the critical issue of suicide in these communities. The organization operates from a stunning 268-acre facility that serves as a haven for veterans and first responders, providing a space where they can come together, share experiences, and engage in outdoor and recreational activities—essentially reclaiming that sense of camaraderie often found in military service.
This year’s gala was particularly special as it honored Craig Ostergard, who not only received the prestigious Sgt. Baez Honor Courage Commitment Award but was also pleasantly shocked to have it presented to him by none other than his Vietnamese counterpart, Ri Nay, from their time in Vietnam.
A Moment of Honor
“I am honored to receive this award, but I don’t do this for accolades,” Ostergard said, expressing his gratitude. “I just wanted to make a difference in the lives of men and women who served our country so proudly and come home with no purpose, and no one to connect with like they do on the battlefield.”
Ostergard’s journey to this moment is inspiring. A long-time resident of Hilton Head, he has dedicated the last 40 years to building community and supporting veterans. His military background includes service as an Army Infantry Officer in Vietnam, where he earned two Bronze Stars, but his return home was nothing short of painful. Like many veterans from that era, he faced a less-than-warm welcome, feeling isolated and misunderstood in the country he defended.
Reconnecting Through Shared Experiences
Ri Nay, who served as a Company Commander MIKE Force alongside US Special Forces in Vietnam, had a special role in this reunion. He echoed Ostergard’s sentiments about the bond formed in combat. “Our platoon was a brotherhood, fighting together, living together, and surviving together every day,” Nay recalled with emotion. When opportunity knocked to surprise Ostergard, he eagerly accepted, recognizing his fellow veteran’s immense contributions.
After losing touch for decades, Nay and Ostergard managed to reconnect in recent years, making this emotional reunion even more special as Nay and his wife, Charlene, traveled to South Carolina for the occasion.
A Tribute to Sacrifice
Founder of OPFOB, JR Brown, shared the motive behind this heartfelt surprise at the gala. “We saw an opportunity to do something special for a man who has given so much back to veterans in this area,” he explained. “Once you serve with someone in battle, you are brothers for life. Sometimes life gets in the way of reconnecting. We made sure that these two heroes’ lives intersect once again.”
The Sgt. Baez Honor Courage Commitment Award was newly established to honor Brown’s friend, Carlos Baez, a fellow Marine who faced terminal liver cancer after years of dedicated service in Iraq and Afghanistan. Baez’s legacy lives on through this award, which aims to recognize the incredible work being done by veterans like Ostergard and the importance of community support.
A Bright Future Ahead
As the night concluded, the atmosphere buzzed with hope and friendships rekindled. Craig Ostergard’s journey represents not just resilience but the power of community to uplift those who have given so much. OPFOB continues to create a safer, more supportive environment for all veterans and first responders, ensuring no one has to go through their struggles alone.
This annual gala was a reminder that while the past can be filled with challenges, the future holds endless possibilities for connection, understanding, and brotherhood among those who have served.
