Topsail Angler's Fishing Blog

Wounded Warriors

Thursday, May 07, 2009

Yesterday I had the privilege of participating as a volunteer in the Wound Warrior fishing event at Seaview Pier at North Topsail Beach.  This is the 3rd annual pier fishing event put on for these Amercian Heroes from the Wounded Warrior barracks at Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base.  Each one of these young men were wounded proudly serving our country in Iraq or Afganistan.  This event is one of the ways we as a community are using to try to show these guys how much we appreciate them and that they are not forgotten.

This was my second year serving as a volunteer.  We had twenty-four marines and three wives.  We cut bait, take fish off hooks, show these guys how to use the gear, get their water, whatever they need.  They seem somewhat overwhelmed at times by our anxiousness to help them enjoy a day of fishing.  Many of them had never been fishing in saltwater and all seemed to have a blast taking a day away from the rigors of the routines of treatments, therapy, medical tests, etc. 

But the best part is getting to know these guys.  Listening to their stories.  Hearing about their love for their country and their dedication to serve it proudly.  To a man they all want to go back to the fight once they are recovered.  Some will not be able to go because of their injuries but they still want to go.  Some will talk more than others about their experiences overseas but from each you can sense their pride, not in themselves but in their country and the Marine Corps role in protecting our country.

They caught a lot of fish yesterday, blues, mullet and a few Spanish.  They made a lot of new friends.  They warmed the heart of a few old codgers like me.  True Heroes are these men, Heroes indeed!