HONORING AND SUPPORTING THE MILITARY COMMUNITY ON AND OFF THE ICE.

In hockey, no one takes a shift alone. Operation Line Shift carries that same spirit beyond the rink by supporting service members, veterans, and their families through deployments, homecomings, transitions to civilian life, and moments of sacrifice. Rooted in the unifying power of hockey, the initiative reflects the core values shared by the game and the military community: teamwork, grit, and resilience.

Operation Line Shift is the National Hockey League and NHL Foundation’s official military engagement initiative, dedicated to turning gratitude into action through meaningful programs and partnerships. Working alongside partners like ForgiveCo, Operation Line Shift is delivering real, tangible impact, beginning with the elimination of $1.25 million in medical debt for veterans. Just as players rely on their teammates through every shift, Operation Line Shift ensures that no service member or family faces life’s challenges alone.

Through connection, camaraderie, and recognition, Operation Line Shift honors the strength, sacrifice, and resilience of the military community on the ice and far beyond it.

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OLS | ForgiveCo

ForgiveCo provides business advisory services to corporations for acquisition, administration, and cancellation of consumer debt, alongside advisory services in branding, goodwill creation, and bulk debt management – "Transforming debt into goodwill™”

The NHL, through Operation Line Shift, partnered with ForgiveCo during the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs by erasing $1.25 million of debt for U.S. veterans, aiding 1,025 veterans and their families.

OLS | VetsEXCEL

VetsEXCEL is a career development and mentorship program created by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) to help veterans transition into civilian careers within the sports and fitness industry through mentorship, professional development, and industry networking opportunities.

As a founding partner through Operation Line Shift, the NHL supports VetsEXCEL by helping connect veterans with leaders across the sports industry and creating pathways that translate military leadership and experience into meaningful career opportunities.

OLS | Force Blue

FORCE BLUE is a nonprofit organization that redeploys Special Operations veterans and military-trained combat divers alongside scientists and conservationists to support marine conservation missions focused on protecting and restoring ocean ecosystems. 

In conjunction with the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series, the NHL partnered with FORCE BLUE, Tampa Bay Watch, and the Tampa Bay Lightning on a living shoreline installation at MacDill Air Force Base designed to improve water quality, strengthen local habitat, and help protect the coastline from erosion as part of the area’s long-term restoration efforts.

Mssion Support Network