Grand Forks AFB hosts Operation Hardwood Classic and Operation Warrior Call for the first time

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Anthony Nunez-Pellicer
  • 319th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  

The Troops First Foundation traveled to Grand Forks Air Force base for the first time, hosting a series of veteran and troop discussions as well as a basketball tournament known as the Hardwood Classic to promote growth, resilience and warrior spirit, here, Aug. 3 - 7, 2026.

 

Over the course of one week, the 319th Reconnaissance Wing hosted daily group orientations to the foundation. Operation Warrior Calls were held where wounded warriors shared their stories with the members of the 319th to promote resilience and physical readiness through shared experiences of overcoming hardships.

 

“Our veterans tell their story in their own words. Who they are, what they went through, how they got back on their feet and continued to serve their country.” said Rick Kell, Troops First Foundation co-founder and CEO. “We bring these events to bases and deployed positions to inspire the troops and allow them some respite and to share moments with fellow warriors who came before.”

 

Operation Warrior Call and Hardwood Classic tournaments were established in 2004 and 2007 respectively. Since then, the Troops First Foundation has traveled to several deployed locations and bases, bringing world-class professional coaches and wounded warriors to rally the troops and reinforce resilience across military services.

 

"We've been here and we've just been awed by the detail, the work ethic and the respect that the troops have for each other. The thought that goes into everyday activities and the leadership that I see in the Armed Forces is very reassuring” said Tim Floyd, retired head coach for the University of Texas. “Just being here and seeing all the great work and what the people are like, I know we’re in good hands. The country is in good hands.”

 

During the final game of the Hardwood Classic here, the 319th Civil Engineer Squadron faced off against the 319th Logistics Readiness Squadron in a danger-close match where Coach Ray Harper led the 319th CES to their ultimate victory.

 

The games concluded with the teams and coaches bonding over hard-fought games, bolstering their camaraderie and sharing a once-in-a-lifetime experience together at Grand Forks AFB.

 

“It’s really incredible to be able to do something like this at a small base like ours, it really helps out our morale to get to play together and having these guys share their stories with us,” said Airman 1st Class Jaylin Graham, 319th Civil Engineer Squadron pavement and equipment operator. “I’d do this every year if I could and I’m sure everyone else probably feels the same way.”