Father’s Day Tribute: Cherishing Memories and Continuing My Dad’s Mission

Happy Father’s Day to all the incredible dads out there.

At 34 years old, I am amazed at how much my dad has continued to play a role in my life – nearly 20 years after losing him in Afghanistan.

Poor Bear Stories is 4 years old as a company and I find myself wondering what my dad would think of our work and team each and every day.

If you look at our portfolio of work, it’s no surprise that the majority of our projects are in service to the surviving military families, special operators, and the defense contractor space. There’s a lot to be said about continuing the mission my dad left behind.

I believe this is also a great moment to mention those individuals who have played an ongoing role in my family’s life when it comes to filling the void my dad left behind. I’m heartened to say, they have done an incredible job and I am so grateful for who they are and what they’ve done. From the retirement ceremony invitations to their hospitality around the world, we feel your love and it means everything. I know my dad would be absolutely amazed by your generosity and kindness.

As far as a story, my dad loved golfing. He occasionally golfed in sandals or barefoot and frequently managed to pair family time with golfing. Our go-to course and range was the National City golf course in San Diego, CA. However, my favorite time golfing with my dad was in Hawaii on one of the base courses. We managed to get through 9 holes before my dad stopped us from a slightly frustrating golf performance. He pulled his clubs up to the water in front of a small wooden ledge with a 2 ft. drop-off. He pulled out a handful of golf balls from his bag and placed one in front of me, “hit it.” I was a bit confused by the idea of smacking his balls into the ocean. After a little more hesitation, I smiled and took position. The Hawaiian sun was falling and the ocean was changing colors by the minute. I hit a dozen golf balls until one of my drives was long and far. We smiled, “That’s a good one to end on.” It’s a core memory of mine and one I hope to pass on in my own way someday.

I would be very remiss not to mention the fact that my wife Katie and our editors Madeline and Robert have both lost their fathers as well. No one wishes the enduring sacrifice on anyone else, but we are incredibly blessed and grateful to have the “new” family and opportunities we have because our dads gave their all in service to the United States.

(Katie’s father “Brad Conner” and Madeline’s father “Marcus Muralles” resting sites at Arlington National Cemetery, pictured left to right: Jacob Centeno, Taylor Rahn, Emanuel Torres, Robert Chase and Eric Jafet)

Lastly, I want to thank my true Father – the One who has loved me and blessed my life in ways seen and unseen – God. It took me a long time to figure out he was the only perfect Father and would be with me in every way I needed him.