What a great day on the pier for these Heroes on the Water, Northeast Florida Chapter. After a bus ride into Jax Beach and what started out as unfavorable weather conditions, these guys and gals pulled off one heck of a fishing trip. This was my first time attending a HOW event and it won't be my last! It's a good cause and a lot of fun for all involved. Our local Facebook community came together and made some magical memories for these veterans deserving a break from the daily grind.
One veteran in particular overcame a hurdle with PTSD(Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and managed to come out despite some anxiety. Coincidentally, he caught the most Bulls and had a great time. Once we broke the ice with that first fish, his demeanor was like that of a kid in a candy store! Gotta love it when a plan comes together!
A huge thank you to the following people and orginazations for their help to pull this off. Without them, these much needed breaks of fresh air wouldn't happen for these deserving veterans. A huge thanks to: Joe Curtis, Timmy Faughn, Katie Blunk of Heroes on the Water Northeast Florida Chapter, Brooke of Veteran's Affairs, Lake City, Thomas Williams, TJ Berry, Anna Crowder of St. John's Management (Property),Tobi Browning, Wendell Nolan, John Behm, David Behm, Mackenzie Myers, Col Mustards Phat Burgers for bringing us lunch, Keith Secor and Rick Hale of Ricks Bait and Tackle, and a huge thank you to the Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier, especially Al, Vera E Bryant, Charlie and Mrs. Linda for hosting and helping all of us out.
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Danny Pardue