Hardrock Charlie Foundation (HCF) Annual Summit & Water Jump
When & Where
The Summit is always the first long weekend in May (Thu–Sun). After two successful years in Tavares, Florida—including the 3rd Summit at Key West Resort, 2–5 May 2024—the event moved to St. Augustine, Florida, 1–4 May 2025, with lodging at the Guy Harvey Resort on A1A. The 2026 Summit will be returning to the Guy Harvey Resort and will take place from April 30 – 3 May, 2026.
The Airborne Operation
Saturday is Jump day. Up to 100+ qualified Rangers board a WWII-era C-47 Tico Belle provided by the Round Canopy Parachute Team (RCPT) and exit at 1,500 ft for a splash-down in the St. Johns River. The operation is open to HCF Rangers, fully safety-supported by rescue craft, and requires Round Canopy Parachute Team (RCPT) membership and a jump fee. Families may view the jump from the shore of the St. John’s River in Palatka, Fl.
Growth & Impact
Attendance has topped 100+ Rangers annually with over 200 attendees including friends and families since the 2nd Summit in 2023, when Phantom Airborne Brigade (PAB) and HCF bused Rangers to Lake Dora for a 3-day reunion and mass tactical water jump—gators included, but cooperative. The PAB was superseded by RCPT in 2025. More than a reunion, the Summit is where careers are mentored, hardships are shared, and the Airborne Ranger ethos is kept alive—one green-smoke pass at a time. Rangers, families, and supporters are invited to join us in St. Augustine in 2025 and “lead the way” into the water once again. For registration and sponsorship details, visit the Events page or email info@hardrockcharliefoundation.org.