Hi There,
Writing a letter to you about this felt most appropriate. You've supported our mission for years and for the majority of us--it's personal.
Throughout history, it's always good to remember--All things are built just to fall apart.
As you know, we began this company and mission with the intent to rally compassionate people to help those overlooked by the media, government, and major corporations. Build products in war zones to create jobs and the accompanying security, put footwear on bad ass people committed to being better humans, and use profits to fund girls schools in Afghanistan.
Admittedly, it was an audacious mission that many believed would fail. 10 years later, we're all still here. Unfortunately, the final part of our mission came to an end in August of 2021.
With the fall of Kabul and the new government, Aid Afghanistan for Education had to close its doors to the 13 schools in Northern Afghanistan.
To say it's a loss is an understatement. If you know me and been in the circle of Combat Flip Flops, you know it's been a struggle. But regardless of how tough the struggle, the entire team would saddle up and continue forward because somewhere in Afghanistan, a little girl was sitting in a classroom learning to read. It was our purpose. And now that purpose is gone.
In reading this, I hope you mourn the loss alongside us.
How do we move forward from here? We do what we always do--saddle up, recognize the good we did in the world while we had the time and stage, then refocus on another equally positive endeavor.
Be proud that you're part of a community that put over 1,000 young girls in school. Without you, they never would have had that chance. And because of you, they have a chance now. If they made it out, they can attend school elsewhere. If they didn't, maybe they're the voice that will bring women's education back to Afghanistan. But neither of those groups would have had that chance if it weren't for you.
Thank you.
It's been a tough couple of months settling in with the reality of the situation. Inside the front cover of my journal is a Venn Diagram with two circles. On the left, "What you can control." On the right, "What matters." In the overlap, "Focus Here."
We can't control the gross ineptitude of governments and the current stranglehold on Afghanistan. So for the time being, we have to let it go and focus elsewhere.
We will continue to make quality products in post conflict areas. We will continue to help veterans at home.
What we can control. What Matters. Focus.
With the Utmost Gratitude and Respect,
Andy, Griff, Lee
Founders, Combat Flip Flops
Comments
“Be A Better Human”. That says it all.
In a world often divided by conflict and adversity, there are those rare souls who choose to walk a different path—one paved with compassion, resilience, and a commitment to making the world a better place. Combat Flip Flops is one such company, not just a brand, but a movement. Their mission to educate women in Afghanistan and to “Be A Better Human” transcended the mere creation of comfortable, stylish flip flops; it was a battle cry for peace and humanity.
At the heart of Combat Flip Flops’ mission was the empowerment of women in Afghanistan. In a region ravaged by decades of war, where opportunities for women were scarce, I was fortunate to see firsthand the impact Combat Flip Flops has had in changing peoples lives. By funding the education of Afghan girls through the sale of their products, they aimed to break the cycle of poverty and violence, giving these young women the tools they needed to build a better future for themselves and their communities.
The founders of Combat Flip Flops understood that education is the most powerful weapon against extremism. They believed in the simple yet profound idea that an educated woman can uplift an entire generation. Their commitment was unwavering, even in the face of unimaginable challenges.
August 2021 marked a dark chapter in the history of Afghanistan. It will be a moment in time many of us will never forget. With the fall of the country to the Taliban, the hopes and dreams that Combat Flip Flops had nurtured seemed to shatter overnight. The Taliban’s oppressive regime brought an abrupt end to the education programs that had been painstakingly built, leaving countless Afghan girls in despair.
For Combat Flip Flops, this was not just a setback—it was a heartbreak. The people behind the company had poured their hearts and souls into this mission, driven by a deep sense of responsibility and a desire to make the world a better place. The pain seen in Griff’s eyes as he took to the media to tell the world up to the minute details on events transpiring halfway around the globe was palpable. To see their efforts undone was devastating, but their spirit remains unbroken.
The individuals behind Combat Flip Flops are more than just entrepreneurs; they are visionaries and humanitarians. They are veterans who have witnessed the horrors of war firsthand and have chosen to wage peace instead. Their belief in the power of kindness, education, and entrepreneurship has inspired countless others to join them in their quest.
Their motto, “Be A Better Human,” is more than just a slogan—it’s a way of life. It is a reminder that every action we take, no matter how small, can contribute to a greater good. The founders of Combat Flip Flops live and breathe this ethos, and their products are a testament to their values.
Combat Flip Flops are not just a symbol of hope and resilience; they are also a testament to quality and comfort. Each pair is crafted with care, ensuring that every step you take in them feels as good as the impact you’re making in the world. Whether you’re strolling on the beach or navigating the streets of your hometown, Combat Flip Flops offer unparalleled comfort, reminding you with every step that you are part of something bigger.
The Legacy Lives On
While the situation in Afghanistan remains uncertain, the legacy of Combat Flip Flops endures. Their mission may have faced setbacks, but their commitment to making the world a better place remains as strong as ever. They continue to inspire others to “Be A Better Human,” and their story serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, the fight for peace, education, and humanity is worth every step. For those of us that served that will always be at the core of why we chose to make that sacrifice.
Combat Flip Flops is more than just a company; it is a beacon of hope in a world that often feels divided. Through their work, they have shown that it is possible to walk a path of peace and make a meaningful difference. And as long as there are people willing to follow in their footsteps, the dream of a better world will never die.
It will forever be grateful for the bonds that were built throughout all of this and every step I take in my OD Green Floperators will bring a smile to my face. Thank you Griff. You make me strive everyday to “Be A Better Human”. Oh, and not ALL Intel guys are worthless idiots.
Always Faithful, Always Forward.
Just ordered my 3rd pair of flops, I dig them like no other. I am excited for a new pair. Every once in awhile someone actually reads the tags and it always creates a big laugh and sparks a conversation. I always sport the “Bad for running” and “Worse for fighting.”
Semper Fi
From a felllow veteran I am on my 4th pair of floperators. Best sandals I have ever worn and makes me love em even more knowing the mission yall are on. Keep up the fight brothers…
So sad to hear – as someone from the UK who advocates for your business – uses it as a case study for students and entrepreneurs in how passion and purpose can lead to us to a world without bullets. Your mission will stay alive so long as we remain focused on a better world. Thanks for all you have done – and I will continue to wear my t-shirts with pride.
Educate girls clandestinely.
As a combat engineer vet from the UK now in the US working as a Paramedic and Public Safety Diver it’s a pleasure to know that you tried your best for so many caught up in warfare. I try my best to make a positive difference to people’s lives daily here unlike the inept government that negated so many by abruptly abandoning them.
REspect Sirs……….
I’ve been searching your site and socials for your new mission after reading how you had to cut ties with Afghanistan. A noble mission undercut by incompetent government agencies to turn their focus against another war we shouldn’t be involved in. I’m interested in what you are considering. Certainly, needy causes are in no short supply: Yemen, refugees from Afghanistan and Ukraine (not the government but the people caught between the politics) and other unstable regimes. Please keep us informed. Thanks.
Be proud of what you did. You did more than most in making the world a better place. I’m sure you will find another cause worth supporting either in relation to Afghanistan or somewhere else. When you do please make a big deal out of it. I would love to donate to whatever you decide.
Let’s go Brandon.
Griff, Andy, Lee- You made a difference, changed lives for the better, and brought awareness to people who would never had awareness. You got them to care and that translated to involvement. You drive me every day to ‘Be a Better Human’. Hold your heads high, you gave a voice to those who did not have one. I know you will find a way to continue the fight- ‘Rangers Lead the Way’.
Drive on. Refocus. Reorient. It’s a marathon. Evil many times wins. It would be nice to same it sometimes wins, but that is not the case. Evil wins a lot. Their win does not make the fight pointless. Good happens, whether we see it or not. Pray for strength and guidance, and then drive on.
With the current situation in Ukraine, has there been any thoughts on donations to help rebuild Ukraine after the fighting is over? Would be great to help out if possible. I just don’t trust all charities asking for money but would trust you guys!
From the beginning of your company, you guys have done everything well. I appreciate your mission, sacrifice, and everything you put forth. Everything you guys did for the girls in Afghanistan was good. We will continue to support you in all that you do.
Gents,
A heartfelt thank you for what you have done for Afghans and for so many other folks in conflict zones.
As a guy who has known Afghanistan as a Soviet client, then a Taliban kleptostate and then the new Afghanistan which was far from perfect but allowed men and women more freedom, it was a tragedy to see the return of the a Taliban. We can only hope they will be tossed out again by the bravery of the Afghans of the North.
Fingers crossed.
Be proud of what you’ve done and for what you’ve inspired others to do and be.
Love the products and the mission. What has transpired is no doubt tragic, but you have to focus on the good you did for the time you could. Happy to continue to support you all, wherever the mission happens next.
So sad the mission ended the way it did, but that is life. I am sure you will find an equally worthy mission and go after it like you did in Afghanistan. You folks made a serious difference in the world. Hold your heads high!
I have hated flip flops for as long as I can remember. That thing between the toes? Torture. Flip flops were not even a thing in my life. Then I read “Steps Ascending”. Bought a pair of Floperators. Wore them. A thingy between my toes was way easier than the life of an Afghan girl…or boy. Bought another pair. Then another. Patches. To contribute one tiny piece of what it takes to educate and employ people in post-conflict zones. To create a better world. Every time I wear my Floperators or swap patches I’m reminded that the good guys, you guys, are hard at work making the world a better place. And I have a tiny part of that, too. So, it sucks now. But you’ll find a way. And I hope to keep doing my tiny part with you. Only…not piercings. Ok? I did the thingy between the toes but that’s where I draw the line. Forward never straight.
I’m proud I had the opportunity to help them girls out! Whatever the next mission I’m sure we I’ll be behind it at least 65.3%! Keep up the greatness
Individuals not governments are what make this world great. God bless you guys and all the women and people that were born into challenging places and times. You guys did more for people than 99.99% of us will ever have a chance of doing!
So happy to be part of this project. Continuing to get mire people to purchase your amazing g products to help the next mission where ever that is moving forward. Thanks you for your service and continued service forward .
Thank you for the work you did while you could. I always championed your brand in my community when given an opportunity for the good you were doing. I cherish the flip-flops that say “made in Kabul”. Your company has an amazing mission and I can only hope you’re able to continue it where ever it’s needed.
“Made in Kyiv” also has a nice ring to it… just saying.
God bless you all in your achievements and goals. Keep fighting the good fight. Thank you for all that you do.
Thanks for your great work and great products. Unfortunately there will be a need elsewhere for compassionate people like yourselves to help war torn countries. Ukraine 🇺🇦 is one of them.
Much love and respect.
Gentlemen, thank you for all of your efforts to support girls and women in Afghanistan. As you all know, education is the key to a successful future and I pray that the young women you helped are safe and will be successful in their future. Bless you all for looking at a way to help others.
I salute you all for your passion and perseverance, directed toward an important cause. You HAVE made a difference.
really don’t have the words, just American civilian. Great idea, love your products. Where any of these people that you help. Girls in the schools did they leave or evacuate ? Thank you all for what you did and are doing. Joe Vigliotti
Thank you