American Legion Post 543 hosts fishing event for wounded veterans

American Legion Post 543 hosts fishing event for wounded veterans

On Oct. 9, 2015, Operation North State and volunteers including Legionnaires from the Richard H. Stewart, Jr. American Legion Post 543 arrived at the Ocean Crest Pier located on Oak Island, N.C., to prepare for the arrival of veterans, disabled veterans and wounded warriors from as far away as Tennessee and Georgia.

The purpose of the event was to provide participants with the ability to fish, develop new friendships, and further the healing process for those who have sacrificed so much for our country. During the event, Miss Outstanding North Carolina Kenzie wished the veterans luck in their fishing.

During the year, Terry Snyder, founder and chairman of Operation North State, hosts six such fishing festivals throughout the state to attract as many disabled and wounded veterans as possible. According to Snyder, these events are unique in the country. He stated that they could not occur without the support of volunteers, individual and corporate donations and the generous donation of facilities such as the Ocean Crest Pier. This year, Operation North State hosted over 250 veterans. There were smiles all around as these men and women landed their "Big One." Most of the participants vowed to return next year to enjoy not only the fishing but for the camaraderie of their fellow veterans.