On July 23, veteran-owned and operated non-profit Fox Bravo Overland of Cedar Park, TX, was announced as a finalist in the Veteran & Civil Servant Outreach award category in the sixth annual Defender Service Awards presented by CHASE. Chosen from across North America, Fox Bravo Overland demonstrated the determination, commitment, and drive to be selected by Defender as a finalist to win a 2026 Defender 130 and $30,000 toward their organization. To win, however, they’ll need the public’s daily vote. People may vote daily by visiting the Fox Bravo Overland website from July 29 to August 14, 2026.
Founded in 2011 by veterans struggling to reconnect with normal life, Fox Bravo Overland began with a few trucks, remote trails, and a shared desire to rediscover purpose through adventure. Today, Fox Bravo Overland is a veteran-led nonprofit helping veterans, first responders, and service members from around the world rebuild connection through overland expeditions, leadership development, hands-on training, and community.
Fox Bravo Overland Helping Veterans
Greg Walton, Co-Founder of Fox Bravo Overland said, “Too many veterans and first responders continue to struggle silently after years spent carrying responsibility for others. Fox Bravo Overland creates mission-oriented environments where purpose can be rebuilt before crisis becomes catastrophe.” He stated that as demand for their programs grow, so does their responsibility to reach more people safely.
Fox Bravo Overland has worked with many veterans over the years. Some of them agreed to talk about their experience with FBO. To protect their privacy, only their first names are used.
Mary, Army Veteran said, “I made so many new friends. The group has had an incredible impact on my mental and physical well-being. Just being around like-minded people that just ‘get it’ is something I have missed since I left the military. I feel this type of outdoor therapy is by far more effective than any traditional treatment.”
James, Army Veteran said, “I spent years feeling lost, alone, and constantly on edge. My expedition with Fox Bravo helped me re-engage with life. My depressive episodes have lessened, and I’m once again a functioning member of my family.”
Mark, Army Veteran, stated, “The two trips I’ve taken were life- changing. That may sound dramatic, but the experience, being challenged physically and mentally in the open with others who share the unique bond of military, law enforcement, and first responder service, is truly irreplaceable.”
Fox Bravo Overland Executive Director, Kris Coleman, said “We are honored to be a finalist amongst this group of selfless and dedicated co-finalists. ‘FBO’ is excited to compete—and hopefully win—the Defender Service Awards so we can better serve our veteran, first responder and service member teammates.”
Fox Bravo Overland is among four other veteran groups vying for the award in the Veteran & Civil Service Outreach category.
Defender Service Awards Presented by CHASE: The Categories
This is the sixth year of the Defender Service Awards. And, in addition to the Veteran & Civil Service Outreach – Presented by WPP category, several other categories are also vying for votes and awards. This includes:
- Animal, Wildlife & Marine Mammal Welfare Award – Presented by Disney
- Community Services Award – Presented by ei3
- Search, Rescue & Emergency Support Services Award – Presented by Pelican
- Outdoor Accessibility & Education Award – Presented by Outside Inc.
- Defender Service Honorees Award – Presented by S&P Global Mobility
(Recognizes past finalists from 2021 to 2025. It offers a second chance to win a custom Defender 130 and vital funding. Their need for a capable vehicle remains. Their missions continue. Their impact is ongoing.)
Each category winner will receive a customized Defender 130 tailored to their needs, along with $30,000 to advance their mission. The purpose-built Defender 130 delivers unstoppable off-road capability. It features Terrain Response, 8,200 lbs. of towing capacity, and 11.5 inches of ground clearance. It conquers challenging terrain to help these organizations go anywhere and do anything.
The 2026 Defender Service Award winners will be announced during a celebration at Destination Defender on the weekend of September 11. See Land Rover USA’s website for more information about the Defender Service Awards Presented by CHASE.
About Fox Bravo Overland
Fox Bravo Overland (FBO) began when a small group of veterans turned to the untamed western wilderness to heal, reconnect, and rediscover purpose. Today they run overland expeditions, trainings, and peer-supported programs that help veterans, first responders, and service members from all around the world find community and resilience through shared adventure. FBO serves veterans and active service members from all branches; federal, state, and local law enforcement; and first responders-fire and medical personnel. FBO is committed to serving all participants with respect and dignity. They welcome people of every race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, and ability.
Andy Lilienthal is an award-winning writer and has written professionally since 1999. He has over 15 years in the automotive aftermarket working at companies including Warn Industries, Bushwacker, and Lund International. Editorial works include writing and photography for off-road print magazines, to new-car reviews online. He’s a photographer with images in multiple magazines, blog sites, and The New York Times.
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