2025 NSOF ATHLETE AMBASSADOR PROGRAM

Support Branden Vriens with a Per-Mile Pledge

The Navy Special Operations Foundation (NSOF) Athlete Ambassador Program showcases the dedication and drive of athletes who compete in extraordinary events to raise funds for Navy Special Operations families.

These incredible ambassadors represent the resilience and spirit of the Navy Special Operations community by pushing their limits in Ironman triathlons, cycling challenges, mountain biking races, and other endurance events. Through their efforts, they raise vital funds to support NSOF programs that provide critical resources, create meaningful experiences, and honor the service and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes.

Meet Athlete Ambassador: Branden Vriens

Branden Vriens is a retired Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician who served from 2012 to 2023. During his career, he deployed to Iraq with SEAL Team 7 and faced numerous challenges, including sustaining a traumatic brain injury that ultimately led to his medical retirement.

Before his time in service, Branden was a standout athlete:

CIF Swimming Medalist
CIF Water Polo Champion

Now, Branden is channeling his strength and determination into the endurance arena.

His next big goal?
100-Mile Ultra Marathon – May 16, 2025 (Private event with the Born to Run community)

For Branden, this journey is not just about finishing a race. It's a tribute:

“I would like to dedicate this to the EOD Technicians we have lost outside the combat zone, from medical complications and mental health. The community has lost too many great EOD Techs from means outside of combat and they are not honored enough.”

Branden is running in memory of:
 Joshua Christy – “A close friend and mentor. I had the privilege of being his full-time caretaker with his wife Stirling during his battle with a glioblastoma. Joshua never lost his smile or zeal for life, and he was an example of living in the here and now.”
 Steve Cooper – “A colleague of mine and good friend of Joshua’s. Steve Cooper took his own life due to struggling with mental health. Even after his death, he continued to serve his community by donating his brain to science in hopes of finding a solution to traumatic brain injury.”
 Ryan Bannon – “A junior EOD Tech I had the privilege of training while serving at EODMU11 together. Ryan Bannon had a zeal for life and adventure. Ryan’s life was taken too soon in a motorcycle accident in 2020.”

“The brotherhood does not end when the uniform comes off, and I hope to raise awareness toward the mental and physical health of our nation’s greatest special operators.”

Every dollar donated makes a lasting impact.

Click here to make your per-mile pledge

Join us in supporting Branden and the NSOF Athlete Ambassador Program. Together, we can strengthen and empower Navy Special Operations families.