TIDES OF GRATITUDE Supporting the Veteran Community
November 7th, 2026
Master of Ceremonies
Tyr Symank is a decorated U.S. Army Special Forces veteran, writer, and advocate whose multifaceted career spans over two decades of military service, creative storytelling, and community leadership.​Task & Purpose
Enlisting in 1995 as a tanker, Tyr's early military journey led him to the 1st Cavalry Division's Horse Cavalry Detachment, where he spent five years representing the division at public events and rodeos. Seeking greater challenges, he volunteered for Special Forces and was selected, eventually serving with the 19th Special Forces Group in the Washington National Guard. Throughout his 22-year career, Tyr operated extensively overseas as a Green Beret, medic, and intelligence specialist in high-threat environments, including assignments with USASOC and JSOC.
Beyond his military accomplishments, Tyr is a passionate storyteller, writing under the pseudonym Charlie Martel. His works, such as "Milk Run," delve into the complexities of combat and the human experience within it. ​
In 2019, Tyr transitioned to a civilian role as a Program Manager at Black Rifle Coffee Company, where he also contributes content and spearheads philanthropic initiatives. He founded The BRCC Fund in 2020, focusing on veteran health and rights, collaborating with organizations like HunterSeven Foundation, Second Chance K9, and Reel Warriors Foundation.
As the Master of Ceremonies for the Tides of Gratitude Gala, Tyr brings a wealth of experience, authenticity, and a deep commitment to service, embodying the spirit of resilience and dedication that the event celebrates.
Mistress of Ceremonies
Jen Guidry is a nationally recognized keynote speaker, bestselling author, and former top-producing mortgage executive whose life story embodies resilience, faith, and transformation. With nearly three decades of experience in the mortgage industry, she consistently ranked among the top 1% of loan originators nationwide, earning accolades such as San Antonio’s No. 1 Loan Officer and being named one of the Top 10 Most Empowering Women in Mortgage globally in 2023. ​
Jen's journey began at the age of 19 when she entered the mortgage industry as a receptionist. Her dedication and drive propelled her to leadership roles, including branch and regional manager positions at major national firms. Despite her professional success, Jen faced personal challenges, including surviving cancer and overcoming trauma. These experiences led her to reevaluate her definition of success and prioritize holistic well-being.​
In 2023, Jen transitioned from her mortgage career to focus on empowering others through her coaching practice, The High Level Life™. As a certified trauma recovery expert and Christian counselor, she guides high achievers in aligning professional success with personal fulfillment. Her bestselling books, The Storm and Grit & Gratitude, offer insights into overcoming adversity through faith and resilience. ​
Jen's compelling story and dynamic presence make her a sought-after speaker at conferences, corporate events, and faith-based gatherings. Her mission is to inspire others to pursue excellence without sacrificing their well-being, demonstrating that true success encompasses both achievement and inner peace.
Mike S. Burke
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Command Sergeant Major Retired, U.S. Army | Executive Director, Legends of the 75th | SVP of Operational Strategic Support, Main Street Auto
Michael S. Burke is a retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major with more than two decades of leadership experience forged in demanding environments. Over a 25 year military career, he served 16 years in Special Operations and completed 14 combat deployments, most within the 75th Ranger Regiment, where he led at the highest levels of operational excellence, discipline, and accountability.
Today, Mike continues to lead with the same intensity and purpose across both nonprofit and corporate arenas. As the Executive Director of Legends of the 75th, he leads a national effort to preserve and elevate the legacy of the 75th Ranger Regiment through film, storytelling, and historical initiatives. Through this work, and as host of the Legends of the 75th Podcast, he ensures that the voices, lessons, and sacrifices of Rangers are captured with authenticity and shared with a broader audience.
In the private sector, Mike serves as Senior Vice President of Operational Strategic Support at Main Street Auto, where he drives operational excellence across a rapidly expanding, multi state organization. Known for his ability to align people, processes, and purpose, he has played a key role in scaling operations, strengthening leadership structures, and building systems that sustain long term growth. He previously served as Chief of Staff at Northern Rock, where he helped guide strategic development and internal alignment during a period of rapid growth.
A sought-after voice on leadership, culture, and organizational performance, Mike draws from both battlefield experience and corporate transformation to challenge audiences to lead with clarity, ownership, and intent. His message is grounded in a simple belief, culture is not declared, it is demonstrated, reinforced, and lived every day.
Mike lives in Georgia with his wife Sarah and their four children, Hayden, Ayden, Keaton, and Ashlyn.
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What to Expect
Tides of Gratitude is a Semi-Formal Fundraising Event where we will have dinner and drinks as well as gifts for all that join us. Through out the event we will have a silent auction followed by a live auction.