The Coast X Coast Foundation

Mission

Our mission is to honor the legacy of fallen U.S. Special Operations Forces by enhancing the quality of life for special operations veterans and their families. CoastXCoast addresses the invisible wounds of war through a holistic focus on mind, body, and spirit. We raise awareness of Operator Syndrome and partner with medical professionals to provide comprehensive support, preserving the force and honoring those who served. Our commitment is to ensure these extraordinary individuals receive the care and support they deserve.

American Special Operations Forces

Special Operations Forces operate under distinct commands, each with specialized roles and subordinate units, including:

  • Air Force Special Warfare (AFSPECWAR): Comprising Pararescue (PJs), Combat Control Teams (CCTs), Tactical Air Control Party (TACP), and Special Reconnaissance operators, AFSPECWAR integrates AirPower with precision and expertise in the most austere environments.
  • United States Army Special Operations Command (USASOC): Encompassing units such as Special Forces (Green Berets), Rangers, and other elite forces specializing in unconventional warfare, direct action, and strategic reconnaissance.
  • Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC): Known as Marine Raiders, these units excel in reconnaissance, counter-insurgency, and small-unit tactics in complex and dynamic environments.
  • Naval Special Warfare Command (NSW): Including SEALs and Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crewmen (SWCC), NSW specializes in maritime operations, counter-terrorism, and clandestine missions.

These commands are supported by a vast network of direct support organizations and professionals, ensuring mission success. Together, they represent the full spectrum of Special Operations capabilities.

American soldier in gear with thumbs up

The Hidden Cost of Service

Special Operations personnel face unique challenges that can lead to Operator Syndrome, a complex condition arising from the relentless demands of their profession. Over time, the high allostatic load and constant pressure take a significant toll, resulting in a range of interconnected physical and psychological issues.

Despite their remarkable resilience, the sacrifices Special Operators make often mask the profound impact on their well-being. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is essential, not just to protect their health but to honor their dedication and service to our nation.

Soldier on plan getting ready to jump

Who We Are

CoastXCoast is more than an organization; it’s a living tribute to the unwavering bravery and sacrifice of our fallen heroes. Our story began in October 2012, in the unforgiving terrain of northern Afghanistan. On a night that forever marked our lives, Special Operations member Ryan Savard gave the ultimate sacrifice, rushing toward enemy fire to protect his team. Despite the chaos and the loss, his courage allowed his teammates to return safely—a debt we can never fully repay.

In the summer of 2014, while deployed in northern Iraq, two soldiers and close friends of Ryan, envisioned a way to honor his memory. The CoastXCoast Ride for the Fallen was born out of their desire to remember Ryan’s heroism and extend support to families who have endured the loss of their loved ones in combat. What began as an idea quickly became a movement. That September, the first Ride for the Fallen rolled across the country, uniting communities in a shared mission of remembrance, gratitude, and healing.

Our Evolution

As we grew, so did our understanding of the challenges faced by Special Operations veterans and their families. CoastXCoast evolved to go beyond honoring the fallen. We embraced a mission to enhance the quality of life for Special Operations Forces, addressing not only the visible scars of service but the invisible wounds of war.

We tackle Operator Syndrome—a complex collection of physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges—head-on. Through partnerships with leading medical professionals, we offer holistic support focusing on the mind, body, and spirit. From providing access to cutting-edge treatments to creating a network of care, we ensure that these extraordinary individuals and their families receive the comprehensive support they deserve.

Today, CoastXCoast Ride for the Fallen is both a tribute to those we’ve lost and a lifeline to those who continue to serve. Our rides and initiatives amplify awareness, foster community, and provide healing—preserving the force and honoring the legacies of our fallen.

We are CoastXCoast. We ride for the fallen, we serve the living, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to those who defend our freedoms.