Friday, Nov. 14, 2008

Wounded Vets Get Fishing Trip at Grapevine Lake

By Nicholas Sakelaris

Staff Writer

A group of 33 wounded veterans spent Saturday morning fishing on Grapevine Lake thanks to the generosity of local individuals and businesses.

Everything from buses and hotel rooms to food and boats was provided as part the nonprofit "Take a Soldier Fishing" program that helps veterans get away from the hospital, said Mike Nashif, who served two tours in Iraq in the U.S. Army.

"It’s very relaxing for them," Nashif said. "They keep coming back for more."

This marked the ninth lake the program has visited.

Take a Soldier Fishing is part of the Combat Warrior Crisis Network, a nonprofit group that helps war veterans who have been wounded in combat.

It’s not just the act of fishing, it’s the outpouring support and gratitude from the public, Nashif said. Many of these veterans are suffering emotional damage from the war, he said.

"We have created an alternative medicine for [post-traumatic stress disorder], without taking meds," Nashif said.

The Hyatt Place, Super 8, Hampton Inn and Comfort Suites in Grapevine donated rooms for the soldiers to stay in and several local restaurants donated food.

The soldiers and volunteers launched from the boat ramp at Katie’s Woods on the south shore of Grapevine Lake early in the morning, in a total of 19 boats, all provided by local volunteers.

Grapevine native Randy Martin donated his boat for the day and said the time he spent with the veterans more than rewarded him. He especially enjoys bringing smiles and joy to the young men and women who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"I can’t tell you how life-changing it is to do something like that," Martin said.

Martin said the group is already planning to return to Grapevine Lake sometime next year.

To learn more, visit takeasoldierfishing.com.