Mossy Creek Invitational – Bridgewater, Virginia

27-29 June 2008

On June 27 – 29, 2008 thirteen PHWFF wounded warriors from Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Ft. Belvoir WTU, Ft. Carson, and Ft. Leonard Wood attended The Mossy Creek Invitational near Bridgewater, Virgina.  This tournament provided the opportunity for these soldiers to participate in an amazing fishing event while also helping raise money for PHWFF.

Bob Fitch of BAE Systems hosted the tournament and provided the main stretch of property that was fished on during the tournament.  John Miko also of BAE systems was the event coordinator and helped set up the tournament and organized the rules for fishing in the tournament.  Over 100 individuals volunteered their time to make this event happen along with support from the Mossy Creek Fly Fishing Shop, the local Trout Unlimited Club and the city of Bridgewater.  Several Virginia Corporations to include Booz & Company helped with the tournament and donated money to PHWFF at a generous total topping $80,000.

The first night upon arrival a dinner social took place at Ham’s of Harrisonburg where wounded veterans were treated to drinks and food that was on-the-house by it’s owner, which was met by much appreciation from all the soldiers. Many of the volunteers and sponsors for the tournament were in attendance and all shared in their excitement for the fishing that was going to take place the next day.

On tournament day the soldiers were paired up with guides, read the rules of the tournament, and given a stretch of water to fish.  For many soldiers this was their first time ever fishing for trout, and were quite excited when they all landed their first fish. 
As the day progressed many fish were caught and memories were made. The event ended with awards for the winning teams handed out, donated items raffled off and the presentation of the donated money to PHWFF Ed Nicholson.

The weekends activities were easily summed up by Sergeant Robert Good from the Ft. Belvoir WTU, “It’s all about having fun!!!”.   Who also added, “ PHWFF is a great program, it allows soldiers to get  away from the hospital or Army post and relax while having a great time”.