The U.S. Military Special Operations forces face unique challenges that often go unrecognized, leading to isolation, addiction, and suicide among its personnel
The Warrior’s Journey (TWJ) focuses on providing education and resources specifically tailored to address the invisible wounds faced by these elite warriors.
TWJ collaborates with organizations such as The Harvard School of Business and the United States Chaplain Corps at the Pentagon to identify and address the most common challenges experienced by military Special Operations Forces. By raising awareness and offering prevention strategies, TWJ aims to help these warriors navigate the physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges they may encounter before they escalate into crisis.
Currently, TWJ is dedicated to addressing the struggles that SOF warriors encounter as they transition from military service to civilian life. This period of adjustment can be extremely challenging, and our focus is on providing support and resources to help these individuals successfully navigate this significant life change by new mission.
“Through their worldwide volunteer network, “The Warrior’s Journey” organization has dedicated themselves, and their resources, to assist every member of every branch of our military, both at home and abroad, in their times of personal crisis.”
Lt. Gen. Wiiliam G. Boykin (U.S. ARMY, RETIRED)
The Initiative: Warriors Helping Warriors
Through The Warrior’s Journey, we provide opportunities for SOF veterans to explore new opportunities and make meaningful contributions outside of the Special Operations Forces community. By offering a platform for discovery and growth, we aim to empower warriors to find purpose and fulfillment in their post-military lives.
Our organization also works to build a strong sense of community among SOF personnel by facilitating connections and collaborations. By fostering relationships and creating a network of support, we strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where warriors can share experiences and find solidarity with others who have served in a special operations capacity.
TWJ recognizes that moments of crisis can occur outside of combat situations, such as during the reintegration process or when facing feelings of isolation and moral injury. With 24-hour access to a dedicated connector, TWJ ensures that warriors have personalized support from someone with shared military experience to guide them through the healing process. With over 42,000 veterans organizations in the U.S., TWJ aims to ensure that no warrior is left to navigate the challenges of recovery alone.
Troy Malesky, TWJ Director, SOF Initiatives
Troy is a Springfield, MO native who enlisted in the Navy in 2010 with the goal of becoming a Navy SEAL. Upon completing Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL Training (BUDs) and SEAL Qualification Training (SQT) in 2011, Troy began his SEAL career at SEAL Delivery Vehicle Team One (SDVT-1) in Hawaii. While at SDVT-1 Troy became a proficient pilot while getting the opportunity to complete one national tasking in 2014.
In 2016 Troy had the opportunity to take a billet at Advanced Training Command (ATC) where he lead classroom and in-water instruction of the SEAL Delivery Vehicle (SDV) schoolhouse. In November 2018 Troy left the military to focus on being a husband and father. In 2021, Troy found himself back in the SDV but this time as a test pilot.
In 2024, Troy once again left the SDV community but this time it was to pursue a higher calling that God had placed on his heart, which is to support the SOF community in a more impactful way than ever before. In March, Troy joined The Warriors Journey as the Director of SOF Initiative. Troy has a heart for service members and veterans alike and encourages everyone to find Peace, Gain Identity, and Accept their next Mission while pursuing a relationship with our Lord and Savior!
Troy is married to his wonderful wife Katelyn, who has supported him and has been by his side even prior to him joining the military in 2010. Troy and Katelyn are blessed with four wonderful children, Gavin, Brynlee, Briella, and Ada.