Operation Deep Blue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization which exists to increase awareness of law enforcement officers, other first responders and military service members who died in the line of duty, as well as raise funds to provide relief to their surviving family members. 

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Each year, Operation Deep Blue plans and organizes "The Expedition To Honor Our Fallen." Over an eight day period, the Operation Deep Blue team paddles approximately 225 miles from Fort Mott State Park in Pennsville, NJ to Washington, DC.  In addition to honoring all law enforcement officers, other first responders and military service members who died in the line of duty, each Operation Deep Blue team member selects an individual hero, who made the ultimate sacrifice, to honor throughout the expedition. 

 

In preparation for the expedition, the team trains year-round to include paddling throughout the winter in sub-freezing temperatures.  During the expedition, the team’s skills, physical endurance, mental toughness and commitment to honoring our fallen heroes are tested as they paddle as many as 10 hours each day in a variety of challenging and rapidly changing conditions. 

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The 2023 Operation Deep Blue expedition is scheduled for September 16th - 23rd.  This year's team is comprised of active, retired and former law enforcement, military and disaster preparedness & response personnel from various federal, state, county and local agencies. The Operation Deep Blue Board of Directors and team members serve in a 100% volunteer capacity, receiving zero compensation, and invest hundreds of hours each year in preparing for and participating in the expedition.

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