From Tactical Air Control Party to Surf Brigade: Kevin Laliberte’s Journey of Service and Support
After 23 years of service in the U.S. Air Force as a Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) member, with much of his career spent in Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), Kevin Laliberte concluded his distinguished military journey as a Chief Master Sergeant (CMSgt). During his final two years, he had the distinct honor of playing a pivotal role in the creation of the U.S. Space Force, adding a historic chapter to his service.
Throughout his career, Kevin was privileged to deploy nine times with special operations units to Afghanistan, Iraq, Africa, and Europe. These deployments, coupled with leading large organizations, provided Kevin with invaluable experience in helping others remain mission-ready and excel in their roles. However, after retiring, he identified a crucial gap in the veteran community and took a different approach to addressing post-military challenges, moving beyond traditional therapy methods.
While psychotherapy and medication are vital for many, they don’t resonate with all veterans. He realized that some might benefit more from exploring their individual purpose, crafting their own narrative, and connecting with a new community. This realization led to the development of a multi-week, curriculum-based program specifically targeting these common veteran challenges. But he soon realized that talking about these issues wasn’t enough—it needed to be something more. Surfing became the catalyst for bringing people together, igniting a sense of community and connection.
Surfing, with its therapeutic benefits and opportunities for team-building, became the perfect medium for veterans to engage with each other while experiencing the healing power of the ocean. This vision gave birth to Surf Brigade.
Introducing Surf Brigade: A New Approach to Veteran Support
Surf Brigade is a five-week engagement program in which veterans participate in weekly virtual discussions guided by a professional counselor focused on purpose, narrative, and community. Each Saturday, the group comes together to learn surfing as a team with professional coaches. This unique approach allows veterans to build resilience, connect with others, and find a new sense of purpose after their military service.
Surf Brigade also published a series of insightful blogs on their website that delve into our definition of and approach to surf therapy. For more information, please visit the blog section at the bottom of their homepage.
Surf Brigade’s Mission: Strengthening the Veteran Community
The mission at Surf Brigade is to enhance resilience within the veteran community by offering transformative support and connection. Through the five-week surf therapy program, veterans engage in guided discussions to define their purpose, craft their personal narratives, and build a lasting community—all while learning to surf.
Their success isn’t measured by surfing skills but by the strength and sustainability of the support networks veterans build through the program. The bonds formed during this journey help veterans not only to navigate life after service but also to thrive in it.
Based in Santa Rosa Beach, FL, Surf Brigade welcomes any veteran who can commit to the program. We hold sessions once in the spring and once in the fall each year, providing an opportunity for veterans to connect with their peers in a supportive, inspiring environment.
Riding Life’s Waves: Insights from Surfing
Surfing provides profound life analogies that become more evident with each session in the water. As your time on the waves increases, so does your understanding of how surfing can truly enhance your life.
In both surfing and life, your focus determines your direction. Even with the perfect wave and the best surfboard, you’re likely to wipe out if you fixate on what’s behind you. Instead, by looking ahead, trusting your board, and letting the wave carry you, you can move forward with confidence.
This analogy extends to life. Dwelling on past mistakes can hold you back, but by focusing on the future and embracing the journey, you can enjoy the ride and make the most of your experiences.
For veterans, resilience is built by discovering purpose after military service, developing confidence in their personal narrative, and becoming part of a supportive, thriving community. When these pillars are in place, veterans not only establish a strong personal foundation but also strengthen the broader veteran community.
Supporting Surf Brigade: How You Can Help
Surf Brigade is a Florida-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that relies entirely on sales and donations to fund its mission. Individuals can purchase apparel and surf equipment from their website to support surf therapy programs for veterans. Supporters can proudly wear and share their message, knowing that all proceeds directly benefit our initiatives.
The organization welcomes tax-deductible donations through its website and actively partners with individuals and organizations for fundraising efforts. This support ensures that the program remains entirely free for veterans, allowing it to go beyond just teaching surfing. It fosters a strong sense of belonging and provides vital support to all participants. Additionally, Surf Brigade hosts an annual golf fundraiser each spring to support our cause.
Together on the Waves: Join Surf Brigade’s Journey
Surf Brigade is more than just a program—it’s a movement dedicated to supporting and empowering veterans as they transition from military service to civilian life. Through surfing, Kevin has found a way to bring people together, build strong communities, and offer a path to healing and growth. Surf Brigade invites you to join them on this journey, whether by participating in their programs, supporting their mission through purchases or donations, or simply spreading the word about Surf Brigade. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who have given so much to our country.
You can learn more about Surf Brigade below through their website, Facebook, and Instagram:
If your organization is interested in hosting a fundraiser with Surf Brigade as the beneficiary, please contact us, and we’ll be happy to assist you. -Surf Brigade
