Twenty-five wounded and disabled U.S. military veterans arrived in Islamorada last week for the 12th annual Fish With a Hero, a four-day experience that included therapeutic fishing, camaraderie and community support.
On Sept. 15, the wounded and disabled veterans hopped off the bus at Islamorada Fish Company, where they were met by members of the Islamorada Fire Rescue and community. The public welcome reception was hosted by Bastian Fiduciary.
The reception kicked off four days in the Keys, including two days of guided fishing with local volunteer captains and time for the participating veterans to connect with others who understand the challenges of life after military service.
Bass Pro Shops and Worldwide Sportsman are sponsors of the annual event, helping Fish With A Hero bring the veterans, volunteers and Islamorada community together.
For veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury and other visible and invisible wounds of war, time on the water can offer much more than recreation.
“Fishing gives our veterans a chance to breathe, reconnect and find calm again,” said Mark Gibson, a decorated U.S. Navy veteran, former Islamorada charter captain and vice president of Fish With A Hero.
Fish With A Hero is a Florida-based nonprofit that organizes therapeutic fishing experiences designed to provide veterans with encouragement, meaningful connections and veteran-to-veteran camaraderie.
The Islamorada event has grown into an annual tradition, with local captains, first responders, businesses, volunteers and residents helping veterans feel supported from the moment they arrive.
“This reception is an opportunity for Islamorada to come together and give our veterans the warm welcome they deserve,” Gibson said. “We hope people will join us, share a meal, meet these remarkable men and women, and show them how much their service and sacrifice are appreciated.”
