Op Deep Blue: Remember Deputy Keltner and all our Fallen

My name is John Nawoichyk and I have the honor of representing Deputy Sheriff Jacob “Jake” Keltner during Operation Deep Blue (ODB) 2024. This is my 3rd year participating in the annual 225 mile sea kayak expedition starting in Pennsville, NJ and ending in Washington D.C. The volunteer event is scheduled from 7 to 14 September 2024 and conducted to raise awareness of those who gave their last full measure so we can enjoy the blessings of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. In addition to raising awareness of fallen patriots, the program is designed to raise money to provide relief to Gold Star Families of military, law enforcement and first responders who deserve our everlasting love and support. The expedition deliberately tests the team's kayaking skills, physical endurance, mental toughness and most importantly our commitment to honoring our fallen Warriors and their families. You can find out more about ODB at https://www.operationdeepblue.org/

At the young age of 35 years old, Jake was killed on 7 March 2019 while assigned to the U.S. Marshals Great Lakes Fugitive Task Force. Jake and his fellow Task Force members were executing a warrant for a career criminal in Rockford, Illinois when he was killed. Deputy Keltner was the ultimate family man to his wife, Becki, sons, Caleb and Carson, as well as a consummate teammate to the other McHenry County Sheriffs and law enforcement officers. Deputy Keltner represents all of the law enforcement officers who put themselves in harm's way on a daily basis for our safety and security.

Many of you are probably asking, "Why ODB?" President Truman once said, "Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices."

Since my dear friend Major Tommy “TK” Kennedy's death in 2012, each year I have done an annual physical challenge to raise money and awareness for our Gold Star Families. On the 12th anniversary of Tommy's passing. I wanted to continue to do a challenge that tests my physical and mental strength while continuing to raise money for Gold Star Families that deserve every ounce of our love and support. ODB provides that challenge in spades, while spending time with great Americans that share my drive to always remember those who gave their last full measure and an opportunity to help take care of their families – it is our solemn duty!

My goal of raising $5,000, represents $1,000 for each year since Jake was taken from us. Although we can never repay his sacrifice, nor the sacrifice given by all our fallen patriots, this ODB expedition provides us an opportunity to show our appreciation and love to those who need it most.

If you prefer to donate directly to Operation Deep Blue (not on GoFundMe), you can do it two ways (Please include my name in the notes section):

To Donate Electronically: https://www.operationdeepblue.org/copy-of-board-of-directors-2

To Donate By Check: Please make check payable to Operation Deep Blue Corp (and put my name in the notes section) and mail to:

Operation Deep Blue

PO Box 783

Ramsey, NY 07446-0783

Of note, ODB is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization registered in the United States under Employer Identification Number (EIN) 84-3140657.

Please consider supporting this amazing cause!

Thank you and God Bless our great Nation!

John