Wounded Veterans Invited on Free Saltwater Fishing Trip

The state of Florida is inviting wounded veterans to enjoy a free fishing trip to Lee County’s Pine Island this summer.

Set for June 12-14, the trip is part of the state’s Operation Outdoor Freedom. That program, founded in 2011, is designed to provide “unique recreational opportunities throughout Florida to wounded veterans,” an email to media from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services stated.

“While we can never repay our wounded veterans who have selflessly served and sacrificed in order to protect our freedom, we can help honor them by providing recreational opportunities to enjoy Florida’s great outdoors,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam.

Since its inception, Operation Outdoor Freedom has hosted a number of events at private ranches, waterways, forests and timber lands within the state. More than 1,500 wounded veterans have taken part in such activities as guided alligator hunts, deer and hog hunts, freshwater fishing excursions and more. Participants must have a service-connected disability rating of 30 percent or more from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or be Purple Heart recipients to be eligible to attend.

Areas selected for operation outings are “fully equipped to accommodate the needs of wounded veterans, providing a unique opportunity for recreation and rehabilitation,” the email noted. “All funding for the hunts is generated through private donations. Veterans participate at no charge.”

Registration for the June fishing trip is now open. Wounded veterans can register online. Space is limited and registration does close on May 6. To learn more, visit OperationOutdoorFreedom.com.

Photo courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

See Also:

• Fraternity Under Fire for Alleged Harassment of Wounded Veterans
• Bass Pro Shops Brandon Sets Job Fair

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