DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa. — About 40 veterans from six veteran home facilities packed Clark’s Creek at Dauphin County Anglers & Conservationists on Thursday, May 30.
It’s an opportunity put on by the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) to give veterans a change of scenery from their homes and gather with peers to share stories.
“Our veterans need some time to get out of their homes and out of the space that they’re in. And coming out to a fishing tournament is something that they look forward to each and every year,” said Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general and head of the DMVA.
The Fishing Tournament has been going on for eight years. Among the dozens of veterans who were there, one 100-year-old gentleman named Paul, a WWII veteran, said he was enjoying being out of the home and with his buddies.
“This is magnificent and I’m with all my buddies and it’s nice to see them,” said Lynn.
Lynn graduated from Roman Catholic High School in 1941, around the time Japan staged a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, decimating the US Pacific Fleet. Lynn went on to train in Fort Custer Michigan, and when he finished his basic training, he traveled 13 days across the Atlantic Ocean because his unit was avoiding submarines. He’s served in Japan, France, and several other places for a total of three years.
“I didn’t particularly like it. I wasn’t fond of it, I wanted to be home and I’ve had a ball ever since,” said Lynn. “I have a beautiful family, two sons and a daughter who visit me often.”
Although, throughout all his travels, this event was the very first time Lynn saw a trout up close. He said that the event was an amazing way to relax, fish, and hang out with friends.
Organizers say this is a way for them to not only help veterans get out of the house but also say ‘thank you’ for their service.
However, Lynn said it’s not just those who served but everyone who kept them fed, informed, and comfortable.
“Everybody chipped in and did their part, civilians too, and I thank them for their service to me,” said Lynn.
The annual fishing tournament is one example of how Resident Welfare Fund donations made via www.donate.dmva.pa.gov to veterans homes are used to help residents benefit from a wide variety of social events, scheduled outings, and more independent activities.
Download the FOX43 app here.