Day 66 - Veterans

Happy Veterans Day. I'd like to thank my fellow brothers (and sisters) in arms for their desire to protect what is good and noble.

I signed up in February of 1992. I had just turned 17 and I was a Junior at Muscatine High School. I had just signed the line and given 6 and 2 to the United States Army Reserves. I was a weekend warrior and served in peace time (thank you Jesus!). My time ended early of 2001. I was a track vehicle mechanic, a carpenter/mason, and a chaplain's assistant. I ended my military career as an E-4, Specialist (chicken on a plate).

In 2002, I watched on TV as we invaded Iraq. I thought about some of my friends who were still serving and I wondered where they were. Moving to and from Colorado, and then a move to Minnesota left me out of touch with them. I don't know if any of my military friends are still OK. Hearing about roadside bombings, and other horrible incidents I feared for their lives. I still don't know where they are, but social media has me believing that some of them are alive and well.

But this is a fly fishing blog and not a military blog, however I can take a moment to talk about a charity that I've been seeing a lot of press lately and think every good military angler should take notice. The charity is Project Healing Waters (www.projecthealingwater.org). Their mission is to aid in the emotional and physical recovery of wounded, injured or disabled veterans by introducing or rebuilding the skills of fly fishing (and fly tying) and allowing them to use these skills on fishing outings (hopefully to instill in them a lifelong pursuit).

I first heard news of this organization during an episode of Fly Rod Chronicles. Have to admit that I was a little moved when I saw a former soldier, missing an arm, catch a trout and stripping line with his mouth. Maybe there is something to this fly fishing is life philosophy after all.

From a weekend warrior, I offer my thanks to those men and women who heard the call and are serving our country. Thank you.