Ocean Conservation School (OCS)
FORCE BLUE OCS students
Students of Today. Stewards of Tomorrow.
In an effort to educate and inspire the next generation of citizen scientists and marine conservationists — and to give back, not only to our veteran community, but to those military families who have sacrificed so much — FORCE BLUE launched its FORCE BLUE Ocean Conservation School (OCS) for Gold Star families in 2022, expanding the program in 2023 to include the families of wounded and severely injured service members.
FORCE BLUE OCS students
To date, over forty (40) FORCE BLUE OCS students have received their NAUI Open Water Scuba training from FORCE BLUE instructors, undergone physical training (PT) with FORCE BLUE Special Operations veterans and have been introduced to FORCE BLUE’s culture of continuing service — all while learning why the fight to preserve and restore the world’s oceans and marine habitats is so important.
Much like the FORCE BLUE Special Operations veterans who serve as their instructors and mentors, the families who participate in FORCE BLUE OCS have all experienced hardship and sacrifice. For the children of these families, scars from their parents’ service can lead to feelings of anger, isolation and despair that, if left unchecked, can cause destructive behaviors. FORCE BLUE is changing that narrative by giving these children a renewed sense of purpose and belonging — and by equipping them with the skills, training and confidence needed to move forward in a positive direction.
Mask clearing
The goal of FORCE BLUE OCS is simple. To create a cadre of future conservation leaders instilled with a profound sense of duty and purpose. And to give all who participate a tangible way with which to continue their loved ones’ legacy of service — this time in the fight to protect our planet.
It costs approximately $3,000 to put a student through FORCE BLUE Ocean Conservation School (OCS). Your tax-deductible donations can help offset those costs. Please consider supporting us today!