(July 16, 2026) Fort Worth, TX–Some of the most meaningful moments on the water aren’t measured by the size of the wave, they’re measured by the lives they touch.
During the Operation Get Out Salute 2 Service (S2S) event, 6 local military veterans and a couple of their families gathered for a day of connection, wellness and wake surfing on an the Operation Get Out Ri230 and two all new, RS245 Centurion boats. More than a day of wake surfing, the event created space for heroes to connect with one another and experience the healing power of the water with a community that understands service and sacrifice.
Among those participating was retired Marine Robert “Bobby” Aiken, who served from 2000-2005, including two deployments to Iraq following 9/11.
Reflecting on his service, Bobby shared, “It was super heavy combat. I got shot a couple times, but I’m still here.”
Today, he and his wife are celebrating 25 years together, a reminder that behind every service member is a family that serves alongside them.
Also joining the event was Keith Murphy, who served in the U.S. Army from 1985-1989. Looking back on his military service and the life he built afterward with his wife of nearly 38 years, Keith shared the contagious optimism that has made him a beloved part of the Operation Get Out family.
“I love being American, and I love AmeriCANs.”
Keith said he wants to “bring some sunshine wherever I go,” adding, “I’m so glad to be here. I can’t thank Steve and Cindy (Present) enough.”
A special moment from the day was Darion Harvell, the wife of BoardCo DFW’s Hunter Harvell, got to participate in the S2S event with her father. Darion served in the U.S. Navy as a Ceremonial Guardsman in Washington DC and her father, Michael Johnson, served in the U.S. Army as a Helicopter Mechanic at Fort Hood. Darion brought her son Bear along for the day of fun on the water.
Five Team Centurion athletes shared the day with the heroes and helped them learn to surf and get up on a board. Keenan Flegal, JB O’Neill, Tripp Allen, Luke Hutcherson and JRob Terry came together to help these heroes have a special day on the water.
“I am thankful to have been able to participate in Centurion’s Operation Get Out event. It was a great day on the water, full of laughter, excitement, and bonding! We had new surfers learn to get up, and others improve their skills. Everyone was able to enjoy the sport and the company of each other. I want to thank all of our heroes again for all that they have done,” shared Luke Hutcherson.
Throughout the day, stories of military service and sacrifice gave way to laughter, cheering and unforgettable moments on the water. Heroes who had never met before quickly became friends, bonded by shared experiences and a day spent making new memories with their families.
Before the boats left the dock, Operation Get Out Co-Founder Steve Present reminded participants that the day’s purpose extended far beyond wakesurfing.
“Take time every day. Embrace it. It’s important. Water can be healing if we allow ourselves the time to be still,” said Steve.
Steve spoke about the science behind spending time on the water and how it naturally helps lower stress, calm the mind and create space to simply be present. As participants wrapped up the day, each received a small blue marble, symbolizing the water and serving as a reminder to slow down, breathe and make time for moments of stillness long after the event ended. This approach is inspired by the book “Book Mind” by Wallace J. Nichols.
The partnership between Operation Get Out and Centurion Boats reflects a shared commitment to giving back to those who have given so much. Together, they continue creating opportunities for veterans, first responders and their families to reconnect, not only with the water, but with each other.
About Operation Get Out: Operation Get Out (OGO) was founded to provide the experiences and resources people need to intentionally utilize nature and water for positive mental and physical wellness. The inspiration for OGO came through the tragic loss of two Austin Area first responders who used the water for their own respite and release. StarFlight nurse Kristin McLain died during a flight rescue, and Senior Deputy, Jessica Hollis, died during a flood response, but their legacy of service lives on through the healing OGO events perpetuate. The OGO Team is dedicated to utilizing exposure to water in an outdoor environment as medicine for first responders, military, women, youth, and surviving partners who are dealing with PTS, loss, trauma, depression and anxiety. To learn more visit https://www.operationgetout.org.
About Centurion Boats: Creating the World’s best waves, wakes and ride since 1976, Centurion is a towed water sports boat manufacturer built on innovation and commitment to excellence. As a Correct Craft Company, we are charged with “Making Lives Better”. We embody this phrase with the boats we build along with the lives we live on and off the water. Even in our 51st year, we believe 2027 will be the RISE of Centurion Boats. Learn about Centurion’s relentless innovation significantly elevated at http://www.centurionboats.com.
About Correct Craft: Over 100 years of excellence in the marine industry, Correct Craft is a Florida-based company with global operations. Focused on “Making Life Better,” the Correct Craft family includes Nautique, Centurion, Supreme, Bass Cat, Yar-Craft, SeaArk, Parker, and Ingenity boat companies, Pleasurecraft Engine Group, Indmar Marine Engines, Velvet Drive Transmissions, Mach Connections, Merritt Precision, Osmosis, Watershed Innovation, and Aktion Parks. For more information, please visit www.correctcraft.com.