"Team Before Self." These three words represent more than just a motto; they are the ethos of the Coast Guard's Tactical Law Enforcement community. Recently, that spirit of camaraderie and remembrance filled the air at the Miami Springs Country Club as the 16th Annual Nate Bruckenthal Memorial Golf Tournament teed off.
This year's event held a profound significance, proudly sponsored by Brian C. Smith of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty. For Brian, a former Navy Officer, this was more than a sponsorship—it was a personal commitment to honoring a fallen hero and supporting the families left behind.
Honoring a Legacy of Heroism
For those unfamiliar with his story, Nate Bruckenthal was a dedicated United States Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class who made the ultimate sacrifice for his country.
On April 24, 2004, while conducting a security patrol near the Khawr al-Amaya Oil Terminal off the coast of Iraq, the rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) Nate was aboard was attacked by a suicide bomber. Nate tragically lost his life in the explosion, along with two U.S. Navy sailors. He was the first Coast Guard member killed in action since the Vietnam War.
Nate was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, the Purple Heart, and the Coast Guard Commendation Medal with Combat "V" device. Yet, his true legacy lives on not just in medals, but in the community that gathers every year to ensure his name—and his mission—are never forgotten.
The Mission: Taking Care of Our Own
The tournament is a primary fundraiser for the Coast Guard Tactical Law Enforcement Foundation (CGTLEF), a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to supporting the Deployable Specialized Forces (DSF) of the U.S. Coast Guard.
The foundation provides a critical safety net for the families of service members during their darkest moments. When tragedy strikes, the CGTLEF steps in to cover immediate, essential needs that the service may not cover, including:
- Travel and lodging costs for grieving families.
- Funeral arrangements.
- Emergency living expenses.
By relieving these financial burdens, the Foundation allows families to focus on what matters most. As their motto states: "We support Coast Guard Tactical Law Enforcement families during times of need. Together, we take care of our own."
A Community United
The Miami Springs Country Club provided a picturesque backdrop for a day defined by unity rather than just golf scores. The scramble format encouraged participation from all skill levels, allowing veterans, community leaders, and local residents to connect and share memories of Nate.
Brian C. Smith's involvement as a sponsor underscores the vital role local businesses play in sustaining these missions. It is a powerful reminder that while we may work in real estate, our true foundation is built on community support and gratitude for those who serve.
About Brian C. Smith & The Team
Brian C. Smith is a respected leader in the South Florida real estate market and a proud veteran. As a former Navy Officer who has moved over 15 times in the past 20 years, Brian possesses a unique empathy for the relocation process. He understands the emotional weight of finding a place to call "home."
Since 2010, Brian has been happy to call Miami home. Armed with an engineering degree and an MBA from a top-tier marketing program, he utilizes elite analytical tools to create winning strategies for his clients—whether they are looking for a primary residence, a vacation home, or an investment property.
"I listen intently to make your dreams a reality."
Get Involved
We invite you to learn more about the incredible work being done by the foundation.
Support the Cause: www.cgtle.org
Ready to Make Your Move in Miami?
If you are looking for a real estate partner who understands service, logistics, and luxury, connect with The Brian C. Smith Group.
