ORIGINS
After their son’s death on June 4, 2010, the parents of 1LT Joseph J. Theinert, Dr. Francis “Doc” Kestler and Chrystyna Kestler knew they wanted to continue Joe’s legacy of caring for his platoon. During his deployment in March of 2010, Joe’s primary goal was to bring everyone home safe. While none of Joe’s men were physically injured during their year-long deployment, they lost their leader when Joe was killed by an improvised explosive device (IED).
For the remainder of the deployment the Theinert-Kestler family worried intensely about the men of 2nd Platoon, 1-71 Cavalry, and upon their return to U.S. soil the family insisted to Army Leadership that the entire platoon come to Joe’s hometown, Shelter Island, New York, so that the family could communicate their love and concern for these men.
It was this visit with Joe's platoon that shaped a lot of our ideas about how important it is for veterans to have time to spend with each other in a relaxed environment, where they can decompress over events they have experienced together or have in common, and heal. Doc and Chrys, having already used the New Mexico property as their own personal retreat, knew that the space would be perfect for veterans, their families, and other Gold Star Families.
1LT JOSEPH J. THEINERT
The Joseph J. Theinert Memorial Fund was founded by 1LT Joe Theinert’s family after he was killed in action during combat operations in Afghanistan on June 4, 2010.
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In life, Joe’s primary concern was always others. This started as a commitment to his family and friends and extended, after he was commissioned as a Lieutenant, to his soldiers and their families.
Our foundation continues Joe’s mission of being ever supportive of soldiers and their loved ones.
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We Remember Joey.
WHERE
Strongpoint Theinert Ranch operates on 1,100+ acres of former cattle ranch land in remote Magdalena, New Mexico, which features scenic mountains and open prairies.
A 95-minute drive from Albuquerque, with no internet and limited cell reception, STR is a complete escape for guests. The property abuts the Cibola National Forest — 1.6 million acres of public land with elevations from 2,700 to 11,300 feet.
Here, STR participants can rejuvenate their mind, body, and spirit.
HOW
STR retreats are made possible through donations and grant funding. We can underwrite all guest travel and retreat expenses—averaging $750 per person—covering round-trip travel, meals, and equipment. To maximize programs for our participants, STR is entirely volunteer-run; the organization does not pay salaries.
You can support the ongoing mission of STR and help us reach even more vets and families by making a fully tax-deductible donation or volunteering today!