PROJECT RESTORE HOPE 2024
JUNE 1- 7, 2024
*Project Restore Hope is a follow-up to our primary retreat offered in the summers. It is an opportunity for past participants to “pay it forward” and their participation pays for other Veterans to attend in the summer. We open this to the general public only if we have spaces available.
Operation Restore Hope 2023: A Reunion with Friendship & Fellowship
Our fifth reunion event, Operation Restore Hope, took place in April of 2023. Our alumni were elated to join together again for a week of camaraderie and diving in a place that is now very dear to their hearts. The staff at the Towne Hotel (and Max) welcomed us as old friends and we enjoyed an afternoon sightseeing on the island and a visit to the always popular Pirate Museum before we boarded the boat. The pristine blue waters of the Exumas represent healing to our Valkyries and this week together was no different.
This year our reunion event focused heavily on additional training and certifications for those attending. During our week, DSV staff conducted 2 Advanced Open Water Courses, 2 Rescue Courses, a Master Diver Certification, and a DSV staff member completed his Divemaster professional certification. Participants conducted their e-learning prior to the trip and staff held online study sessions to go over materials so all would be prepared when they arrived.
That is not to say we didn’t have plenty of fun and great camaraderie which we all look forward to! As always during our spring reunions, the crew of the Cat Ppalu found calm seas for some exceptional diving and fed us outstanding meals. We enjoyed some beautiful weather and took advantage of down time to relax on the trampolines and share stories. It was not uncommon for the group to enjoy a movie together in the salon each evening after the night dive. While this group was more advanced in their diving than some have been, we still got to celebrate some firsts. Seeing our first Hammerhead and Tiger shark was the highpoint of the week!
The entire staff of Deep Sea Valkyries want to thank Mark and our friends at All Star Liveaboards for helping to sponsor these reunion events. We love our home away from home and can not wait to get back down to the Exumas with you all!
