Kris Sinay

Kris Sinay

Kris joined the Operation Surf family in the spring of 2025. Drawn to the organization by its powerful mission and the proven benefits of surf therapy, she was inspired by the profound impact the programs have on the lives of veterans.

With a deep personal connection to the veteran community—her father a Korean War veteran and her father-in-law a Vietnam War veteran—Kris has witnessed firsthand how the effects of trauma can echo through generations. These experiences have fueled her passion for supporting those who serve.

Kris brings a wealth of leadership experience from the nonprofit world. From serving on boards for youth athletic teams and clubs to working with a local performing arts center, she understands that creating lasting impact takes a committed community. “I’m excited to contribute to Operation Surf’s vision of growth, connection, and transformation through surf therapy,” she shares.

This year, Kris and her husband Brian are celebrating 30 years of marriage. When asked about the key to a lasting, joyful relationship, she says, “That’s easy—marry your best friend.” Together, they’ve raised two incredible sons who are now forging their own paths. As empty nesters, Kris and Brian enjoy camping, kayaking with their dogs Ruckus and Lola, and exploring the scenic backroads on their motorcycles. They give thanks every day for their blessings and the beautiful area they call home.

Kris is honored to be part of the Operation Surf Ohana and looks forward to building lasting memories while helping change lives—one wave at a time.

 

Program Testimonials

"Operation Surf was refreshing and fun! Of course, it was really great to learn to surf, but OS is so much more than just surfing. Never having surfed before and not being very comfortable in the ocean, I was forced to get out of my own way and trust the process. Being able to accomplish something I thought I wouldn't be able to do was very rewarding, and it ignited a fire in me that I had let go dim. I feel rejuvenated and self-confident again. I look forward to trying new things, going on more adventures, and enjoying the sport of surfing for many years to come."

SOF Participant

2023

"The fact that I was able to completely disconnect from work and fully submerge myself in the experience without any obligations opened up many doors for relaxation, resetting, refocusing, rebuilding, bonding, and both personal and relational healing. We were both struggling individually and as a couple prior to this trip. The professionalism, relatability, enthusiasm, excitement, openness, and care that every single member of Operation Surf displayed towards us and one another was contagious. They helped us find our individual selves again and helped save our marriage."

SOF Participant

2022

"Operation Surf was hands-down the greatest trip that I have ever been on. We travel the world for our jobs and get to see and do things that most people can only dream of, but that’s often filled with guilt while my wife is left juggling her own work, the kids, and everything else life throws at her. We spend a substantial amount of time away from each other with all of the trips, training, and deployments. Getting to share this experience with my wife by my side and finding a new, exciting activity that we both immediately fell in love with truly made this a trip of a lifetime."

SOF Participant

2022