Football, Fishing and Freedom
June 14, 2016 | Badgers Give Back
Student-athletes connect with local Veterans over a common past time
MADISON, Wis. – One hundred and sixty-three Veterans, seventy eight boats, four football student-athletes and one lasting impression.Â
As the morning began with a bright sunrise in the East on Sunday, June 12, it was quickly juxtaposed with storm clouds in the West brushing past. Fortunately, as most fisherman would argue, this weather seems to get the fish biting, which is exactly what War Veterans and football players had in mind for this early morning fishing expedition.Â
Take A Vet Fishing, NFP coordinated this special event at the McFarland American Legion to provide War Veterans from all branches of military an opportunity to learn about fishing, head onto the waters of Lake Waubesa and reconnect with fellow Veterans. The theme of the event was "A Day of Giving Back."
"As an Iraq War Veteran, anytime I can spend time with my brothers and sisters fills my heart with joy. The camaraderie amongst Veterans is one of the strongest bonds I have ever felt and am blessed to have," Navy Veteran Ed Garza said.
Football student-athletes Michael Dieter, Micah Kapoi, Chris Orr and David Pfaff surprised War Veterans at Take A Vet Fishing and tackled the waters with them to show support for all active, reserve and military members for the sacrifices both they and their families have made in defense of the United States.Â
"It gave me a chance to make two new friends and appreciate the service of a young Veteran," freshman defensive-end David Pfaff reflected. "But most importantly it gave a Veteran the opportunity to have a fun relaxing time, away from the anxiety of trying to be a normal citizen again."
"Having members of the football team join us for a day of fishing was an absolute thrill for our Veterans, "Gaza said. Â "Our Veterans cheer for them loud and proud on Saturdays [during football season], but little did they know, the Badgers were cheering loud and proud for them during this day of giving back."Â
Take A Vet Fishing, NFP organizes seven fishing events per year across four states, including Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota and Michigan, as well as a special trip for Camp Hometown Heroes in Canada.Â
These fishing excursions have proven to be a staple for Take A Vet Fishing, NFP because it is an activity that helps Veterans reduce stress, especially for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).Â
Take A Vet Fishing reminds us all that the freedom we embrace as Americans comes at the cost of our War Veterans; to the courageous men and women who serve and protect our great nation, we are all forever grateful.
Â
As the morning began with a bright sunrise in the East on Sunday, June 12, it was quickly juxtaposed with storm clouds in the West brushing past. Fortunately, as most fisherman would argue, this weather seems to get the fish biting, which is exactly what War Veterans and football players had in mind for this early morning fishing expedition.Â
Take A Vet Fishing, NFP coordinated this special event at the McFarland American Legion to provide War Veterans from all branches of military an opportunity to learn about fishing, head onto the waters of Lake Waubesa and reconnect with fellow Veterans. The theme of the event was "A Day of Giving Back."
"As an Iraq War Veteran, anytime I can spend time with my brothers and sisters fills my heart with joy. The camaraderie amongst Veterans is one of the strongest bonds I have ever felt and am blessed to have," Navy Veteran Ed Garza said.
Football student-athletes Michael Dieter, Micah Kapoi, Chris Orr and David Pfaff surprised War Veterans at Take A Vet Fishing and tackled the waters with them to show support for all active, reserve and military members for the sacrifices both they and their families have made in defense of the United States.Â
"It gave me a chance to make two new friends and appreciate the service of a young Veteran," freshman defensive-end David Pfaff reflected. "But most importantly it gave a Veteran the opportunity to have a fun relaxing time, away from the anxiety of trying to be a normal citizen again."
"Having members of the football team join us for a day of fishing was an absolute thrill for our Veterans, "Gaza said. Â "Our Veterans cheer for them loud and proud on Saturdays [during football season], but little did they know, the Badgers were cheering loud and proud for them during this day of giving back."Â
Take A Vet Fishing, NFP organizes seven fishing events per year across four states, including Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota and Michigan, as well as a special trip for Camp Hometown Heroes in Canada.Â
These fishing excursions have proven to be a staple for Take A Vet Fishing, NFP because it is an activity that helps Veterans reduce stress, especially for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).Â
Take A Vet Fishing reminds us all that the freedom we embrace as Americans comes at the cost of our War Veterans; to the courageous men and women who serve and protect our great nation, we are all forever grateful.
Â
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