Local Realtors honor wounded warriors with day of fishing

More than 65 wounded warriors spent Saturday, Aug. 23, on the open water with reels in hand as part of the Second Annual Soldiers on the Water.

The veterans were invited to enjoy a day of deep-sea or inshore fishing as a token of gratitude for their service and sacrifice. The Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, along with numerous other sponsors from throughout the Florida Panhandle, gathered together to offer the event and were thrilled with the result.

Organizers agreed there was no greater joy than seeing the faces of the veterans as they disembarked from the two deep-sea and seven inshore boats on that afternoon.

“Thanks for an awesome time fishing,” said Boseph Greenwood, an Army veteran after participating. “I really enjoyed myself and was comfortable relaxing with fellow veterans.”

All the veterans agreed the event provided an unforgettable day of fishing.

“I think this was probably the best day of my life,” said Jill Rodgers of Panama City.

Her husband, Joe Rodgers, quickly rebutted by yelling, “There was no probably to it. It was absolutely the best day of our life.” 

Once the veterans returned from the sea, they were quickly greeted with bottles of cold water and ushered upstairs to enjoy their catch at the Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant in Destin.

“This was one of the most organized events that I have ever attended,” said Ron Clement, a veteran who participated. “The fishing was awesome, and the food cooked up by Fisherman's Wharf was delicious. It was also great to spend some much needed time with my fellow veterans.”