When Wesley Moore decided to give back to Special Operations Warrior Foundation, he chose a challenge that took six months of training and nearly seven hours in open water: a 12.5-mile swim around Key West.
Wesley is a SOWF student from Chapin, South Carolina. He launched Swim for Special Forces in January 2026 to honor his father, James Herty Moore. His father was a U.S. Army Special Forces medic with 3rd Special Forces Group who served multiple combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Wesley shared, “He dedicated his life to service — to his country, his fellow soldiers, and his family — and he passed away unexpectedly in April 2025. This swim is my way of honoring his legacy.”
On Instagram at @swimforspecialforces, Wesley rallied his supporters and shared his training as it happened, from swims and workouts to his yoga practice and other thoughtful reflections. Wesley’s account paired his challenge with his purpose, as he shared SOWF’s mission, his faith, and messages to raise awareness for veteran suicide and mental health.
On race day, Wesley finished in 6 hours, 43 minutes and 42 seconds. More than 50 people gave to his campaign, raising more than $6,000 for SOWF.
“To the long list of people who made all of this possible, thank you so very much. You helped me honor my father, James Herty Moore […] Your generosity, kind words, and encouragement kept me stroking through six months of training,” Wesley wrote. “You helped me honor my father.”
Wesley’s SOWF Advocate, Cara Cima, shared, “He is an absolute gem and has gone above and beyond to give back.”
Wesley’s gift will support continued educational opportunities for other children of fallen or widowed Special Operations Personnel and Medal of Honor Recipients. His example embodies the work of SOWF—Promise made. Promise Kept. Wesley’s dedication is proof that a promise kept to one family can be carried forward by the next generation.
