Giving Back
By Scott Hammer
Mid-Atlantic Staff Writer
February 14, 2009
I fished tournaments here and there this past year, but the events that made the biggest impact on my life and my future in fishing, were the Wounded Soldier/American Heroes Tournaments I participated in.
A wonderful thing is happening in the world of fishing! Individuals, groups and clubs are getting together to give something back to our American heroes; the soldiers returning from harm’s way. I had the chance in 2008 to help organize and participate in many of these tournaments and I plan to do it again in 2009. If you plan on participating, and I hope you will, there are some things you need to know upfront.
Some tournaments are for all soldiers, several are for wounded soldiers and some combine both. The wounded soldiers events can comprise of soldiers ranging from no visible injury to very severe injuries; it’s something you should prepare yourself for. You’d be amazed at how these soldiers handle their injuries. Single and double amputees are the most common.
At our events, the soldiers were bussed in from their respective rehab hospitals: in my case Walter Reed, Fort Meade and Bethesda Medical Center here in the Washington, DC area. They were greeted with a round of enthusiastic applause – we wanted the day to start out on a high note! This event was all about having fun. After the initial greeting we would hand out any sponsor donated items such as fishing gear, lures and baits. I am so proud to be associated with Gary Yamamoto Custom Baits; there is never an event that I attend where they don’t go above and beyond with their donations when they’re able. 
After we got the guys lined up with equipment, the pairings took place. This is usually done on a draw basis with exceptions made for wheelchair bound soldiers who may need to be placed on a pontoon boat, deck boat or a center console. Before we loaded up and headed out to fish, we made sure to pack a lot of water, sports drinks and snacks into the boats. The organizers of these events normally provide these items. If not, make sure you have them available for whoever might end up in your boat.
Since these events commonly take place during the summer, we make sure we’re prepared for the heat. I carry some of the fast drying artificial chamois that are great for dipping in the water and lying across your neck. We all know weather can be unpredictable so it’s a good idea to carry a spare rain suit as well. Once you’ve met your partner for the day, make a simple game plan. This is all dependent on your soldier and his injuries. At one event this past year, I was paired with a soldier who had some severe head injuries and it was a windy day, so I knew upfront that there would be no long runs in rough water. We stayed very close to the marina. Be prepared to come back to the marina for bathroom breaks and a short rest out of the sun. You need to assess your partner’s fishing experience and match them to a style that is best for them – you might be bass fishing or you may be cat fishing! All of the tournaments that I participate in are multi-species and any legal fish counts.
As a fishing guide, it’s second nature for me to take care of my clients. If you’ve never participated in this kind of event, be prepared to bait hooks, tie on lures, remove fish and even cast if you have to. It’s not uncommon for me leave my rod and reel untouched all day. Your focus at these events should be on your partner. Keep the conversation upbeat but by all means engage them. For many this is a transition time and you can help in ways you can’t even imagine.
At out events we break for lunch back at the marina and then finish our day around 3pm with a weigh in and prizes for the soldiers. I have been truly humbled by the outpouring of support given to these causes and I have yet to participate in an event that every soldier did not receive a handsome prize pack.
We pose for pictures, say our goodbyes but the feeling I’ve taken away from these events last a lifetime. I encourage you to participate in these events. As fishermen and women, it is our way of giving back to those who have given so much for us.