How Can Sailors Get Involved in Helping Veterans?
An abundance of veterans live in our region, so make sure to thank them in person for their service today, 2018 Veterans Day. If you’d like to do more to honor veterans throughout the year, there are myriad options on the Chesapeake and its tributaries.
Boat captains and other volunteers tell us that they experience deep satisfaction while sailing with veterans, sometimes wondering if they get more out of the experience than their military guests. The veterans report that they are grateful for the opportunity, and many have experienced life-changing moments out on the water.
If you’re looking for a highly impactful way to share your passion for sailing, the following programs need captains and boats, people to set up and serve meals, and sponsors to donate funds, food, and more. Here’s a sampling of regional programs for veterans and their families:
Warrior Sailing Program introduces sailing skills to wounded, ill, and injured service members. In a fun but intense three-day basic camp, teammates are taught how to manage a boat on the water. Graduates of the basic camp may hone their skills, earn advanced certifications, and learn inshore and offshore racing.
Recovering Warrior Sailing Regatta, which takes place each September, is a partnership among several organizations that offer programs for veterans. Sailors come from across the region and race aboard Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating’s specially modified sailboats, which can accommodate with ease warriors with any disability.
U.S. Patriot Sailing is a competitive racing team program for wounded and combat veterans. Chesapeake Bay locations include Annapolis and Hampton Roads.
Heroes on the Water helps warriors, first responders, and their families relax, rehabilitate, and reintegrate through kayak fishing and being outdoors.
Valhalla Sailing Project teaches recovering, transitioning, or wounded veterans to sail and race on the Chesapeake, helping them to regain and recapture their sense of teamwork, family, community, and self.
Warrior Events organizes social events including sailing events and fishing tournaments.
The Wounded Warriors Day on the Bay provides a stress-free day on the Bay for veterans and their families.
Did we miss your favorite organization that takes veterans out on the water? Email [email protected], and we’ll share it with our readers.
