At Wyld Peak, adventure isn’t just about summiting mountains or trekking deep into the wild, it’s about the stories we carry and the connections we forge along the way. One recent journey that embodied that spirit was Hayden’s trip across California and Nevada, culminating in his attendance at the 60th Special Operations Association Reunion (SOAR) in Las Vegas.
Hayden's trip began in Los Angeles, just after a brief stopover in Fiji. He had been personally invited by Xuan and Larry Trimble, veterans and friends of the Wyld Peak family, to represent our brand and connect with some of the most courageous souls from the Vietnam War era. The SOAR 60th event brought together legends of MACV-SOG (Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group) and veterans from the ARVN (Army of the Republic of Vietnam). It was an unforgettable opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder with those who shaped history.
Before arriving in Las Vegas, Hayden explored some of the Golden State’s most iconic and contrasting landscapes. He soaked in the pulse of Los Angeles, then journeyed into the heart of the Sierra Nevada to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Yosemite National Park. Towering granite cliffs, glacial valleys, and waterfalls offered a humbling reminder of what we’re here to protect, both the land and the stories etched into it.
Yosemite National Park: A Natural Treasure
Yosemite wasn’t just a sightseeing stop, it was a spiritual experience. Standing in its ancient forests, Hayden reflected on the sacrifices veterans have made and how nature has always offered a space for healing and remembrance. These wild places mirror the resilience and quiet strength of the veterans he was about to meet.
Meeting MACV-SOG Legends and Connecting with ARVN Special Forces Veterans
When Hayden reached SOAR 60 in Las Vegas, he was welcomed into a tight-knit community of warriors and their families. Many of them, including MACV-SOG legends, shared deeply personal stories of combat, survival, and brotherhood. These weren’t just war stories, they were living history, shared by men whose bravery had often gone unrecognized for decades. Listening to them speak was a stark reminder of how vital it is to preserve their experiences.
He also had the rare privilege of connecting with ARVN veterans, many of whom fought alongside American forces during the Vietnam War. These conversations broadened his understanding of the global scope of sacrifice and added powerful new dimensions to Wyld Peak’s mission of honoring those who serve.
Building Connections with Veterans and Honoring Their Legacy
SOAR 60 wasn’t just about remembrance, it was a call to action. The conversations that unfolded highlighted the ongoing struggles veterans face today: from mental health to community reintegration to simply being remembered. At Wyld Peak, we believe support doesn’t end with thanks, it begins with action. That means using our platform, products, and partnerships to raise awareness, foster connection, and give back.
Hayden left SOAR 60th with more than stories, he left with purpose. His journey reminded us all that honoring veterans is not a passive act. It’s about listening, learning, and using our collective energy to preserve their legacy while supporting their future. Whether through storytelling, collaboration, or outreach, Wyld Peak is proud to stand beside those who have given so much.
The event also opened the door to important discussions about how we can make a meaningful impact in the future. Whether through partnerships, community initiatives, or raising awareness of veterans' ongoing struggles, we are dedicated to ensuring their legacy continues to inspire and guide us.
Stay tuned as we continue to share more of Hayden’s journey and deepen our work with veteran communities. From the wild landscapes of Yosemite to the historic halls of SOAR, this journey was a powerful reminder that the trail forward is paved with memory, honor, and hope.