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Warrior Care: Injured servicemembers go fishing

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Jack Braden
  • Defense Media Activity-San Antonio
CHOKE CANYON, Texas (AFNS) --  Posted on 11/5/2008 - Anglers from all over the state of Texas converged on Choke Canyon Reservoir Oct. 25 to participate in Fishing for Freedom V.

Fishing for Freedom gives injured servicemembers the opportunity to team up with professional and semi-professional bass fisherman and enjoy a day on the water.

Thirty-three members from all of the military branches recovering at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio were bused in for the event that is held annually and is a way for the fishing community to show appreciation for veterans and their sacrifices.

"For what they have done for us, this is one way to help give back," said George Barnes, the president of the Quality Bass Club in San Antonio. "Personally it feels great because I'm ex-Army myself and I have two sons in the military, one who was in Iraq twice."

Although fishing was the backdrop, Fishing for Freedom has a deeper meaning for those who participate. Most of the fisherman involved cleared their calendars specifically for this event.

"This is a chance for veterans to have a break and forget what's going on right now, have some fun, and bond with fellow comrades," said Tech. Sgt Chuck Bunch, the NCO in charge of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives special programs with the Defense Military Readiness Training Institute at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. He is also a member of the Quality Bass Club of San Antonio. "The happiness they get from being out on a boat and sharing time outdoors is a plus for me; catching fish is a bonus and being outdoors is what it's all about."

Senior Airman Marcus Creason, who is recovering from losing an arm, didn't let his injury get in the way of a good time. Using his prosthetic arm to secure his fishing rod and cranking the reel with his other hand, he caught his first fish on his first cast.

"I love coming and doing stuff like this," Airman Creason said, "It's awesome and means a lot that people support us and do this for us."

"Seeing Marcus catch fish is exciting," Sergeant Bunch said. "Hopefully we can get him a 'Choke Canyon hog,' a big one above six pounds."

The day concluded with a barbecue where prizes were awarded for the largest fish in several categories.