Forging Forward, The Bobby Henline Foundation

16 men came together—spanning generations from the Vietnam War to the War in Afghanistan, and from the front lines of our own communities. They represented the Army, Air Force, and Marines, alongside police officers, fire chiefs, and EMS professionals who serve every day.

They were joined by six boat captains and six first mates—individuals who deeply respect what these men have endured: what they’ve seen, felt, and carried. Together, they brought stories of lives saved, lives lost, and the weight of both. There were moments of laughter and silence, of shared memories, hugs, and connection. All of it set against the healing waters of Lake Erie and the pursuit of walleye.

What stood out in the stories and photos was unmistakable: laughter, smiles, relief, excitement, challenge, camaraderie, good-natured teasing, and mutual respect.

When they spoke, their stories reflected a deep love—for their country, their communities, their families, and their friends. A love rooted in the freedoms we all share.

Some of these men fought overseas to protect those freedoms. Others continue that fight here at home—responding to accidents, emergencies, fires, and tragedies that touch every kind of life: mothers, fathers, siblings, children, strangers. These experiences, whether abroad or at home, leave their mark on the mind, body, and soul.

Many carry that weight quietly. They’ve become experts at hiding their pain—not just from others, but often from themselves. Yet it lingers beneath the surface, sometimes rising without warning: anger, sadness, anxiety, grief, guilt, flashbacks, or withdrawal.

At the retreat, those barriers softened. In their own ways—sometimes lightly, sometimes deeply—they opened up to one another. Through conversation, reflection, and shared experiences, they began to release what they’ve been holding. We’ve learned that speaking those truths out loud, among people who truly understand and “have your six,” can begin to ease even the deepest pain.

The most powerful part of the retreat was the visible healing—seen in posture, in laughter, in the easy camaraderie among the group. It showed up in cheering for the biggest catch, the smallest fish, and even the ones that got away. It began at Thursday’s dinner and carried through to Sunday’s “see you next time.”

You have enriched our lives and we love you all. Reach out anytime.

Jamie and Bobby Henline

 At Forging Forward, The Bobby Henline Foundation, we believe that healing begins by finding what is strong in an individual. Our mission is clear: to eliminate suicide among our active duty and veteran military and first responders by replacing isolation with camaraderie and purpose.

For years, Bobby and Jamie Henline have traveled the country sharing his story of survival and resilience using our personal vehicles. Their most recent purchase was a 2024 Chevy Silverado 2500, which is wearing thin as in 2.5 years, over 90,000 miles have been accumulated, most of the miles spent on traveling to various events. Whether it’s through Forging Forward Retreats, comedy nights, or collaborative events like the Combat Hero Bike Build, co-hosting Retreats with Alabama Veteran, and simply showing up for brothers and sisters, they’ve seen firsthand that connectivity and camaraderie saves lives.

The Challenge: Their demand for outreach is growing. From Lake Erie fishing Retreats to golf retreats to CVMA bike rides, American Hero Honor Rides, and motorcycle honor rides across the country, Bobby and Jamie are constantly on the move. However, transporting the equipment, materials, and products needed to facilitate these life-changing events has become a significant logistical hurdle.

The Solution: Forging Forward is seeking to raise $65,000 to purchase a dedicated foundation van that will be clearly identified as "The Bobby Henline Foundation." This vehicle will serve as our "Mobile Command Center," allowing us to:

• Carry essential gear for Retreats, Outdoor Outreach, comedy shows, fundraising events.
•  Attract sponsors who can help further the mission of serving military and first responders through the services the organization provides.
• Transport Bobby's custom-made adapted motorcycle made by Combat Hero Bike Build so that it will draw people in to ask about the build, the parts, and the "Restorative Engineering" behind it. This often leads to deeper conversations about service, recovery, and transition that might not happen in a traditional setting.
• The core of suicide prevention is connectivity. If Bobby is able to get the bike to an event focused on military or first responders, it creates a "hub." Veterans and first responders gather around it, share stories, and realize they aren't alone. We aren't just transporting a vehicle; we are transporting a tool for engagement that pulls military and first responders out of isolation.

The Bobby Henline Foundation is a 501(c)3, non-profit, public charity, EIN 83-4615262. 

Will you join us in "Forging Forward"? A donation of any amount will bring us closer to the keys of this vehicle and the veterans and first responders waiting at our next stop. As a donor, you aren’t just buying a van; you are providing the wheels for a mission that pulls our heroes out of the darkness and back into a community of support.

Ways to Give

• Click the picture of the van to go to Zeffy to donate.
• Check: Payable to "Bobby Henline Foundation" mailed to ATTN: Jamie Henline,  875 Deacon Road, Greensburg, KY 42743.

Bobby Henline and Jamie are honored to serve those who are or have served our country. We hope you will consider being the fuel that keeps The Bobby Henline Foundation's mission going.