Staff Sgt. Chris McMillen stood on the shore of American Lake and watched the fishing boats come in.
"It is really excellent to be here today and being able to go fishing," he explained.
Assigned to 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment, 5th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, McMillen has returned from Afghanistan recently.
"This is the first time since I've returned that I've been able to get away. And going fishing sounded like a really good (way) to spend the day."
For the second straight year, the Evergreen Bass Club, hosted the Take A Warrior Fishing expedition on American Lake at Russell Landing.
"The response from the club to working with the soldiers was fantastic," commented Mark Jones, the event's organizer and club's vice president.
A nonprofit organization based in Tacoma, EBC is operated for the purpose of sharing good times on the water with friends and family, preserving and promoting the sport of bass fishing, and enjoying friendly yet competitive tournaments.
"We really enjoy doing this for the soldiers and wounded warriors," commented Jim Sumich, a club member who volunteered his time and boat. "In fact, I enjoy doing this more than I enjoy fishing."
The club put 20 boats into the water to take approximately 35 soldiers out on the lake for about four hours on July 24 before returning for a Longhorn barbecue lunch put on by Sessler Inc., one of about 25 businesses that sponsored the event.
Sponsorships aside, the soldiers were in good company.
"We appreciate what they've done for us," said Steve Cotton, a club member and Army veteran. "I share a bond with these guys, and I am happy to do this."
After a safety briefing, the soldiers were assigned a driver and boat.
One of the first names called, McMillan headed over to Jared Davis' boat.
"You ready to go?" inquired Davis, a former Marine, as he pulled on a life jacket.
"I sure am," replied McMillan.
"Today is going to be a great day."
Comments for "Club takes soldiers fishing" (8)
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Mark Jones said on Aug. 11, 2010 at 8:54am
It was an honor to take the soldiers out fishing. Thanks for your service to this great country! Pictures of the event will be posted on the Evergreen Bass Club Website shortly (www.evergreenbassclub.com).
Al Lewis said on Aug. 11, 2010 at 5:39pm
You soldiers are our heroes. We loved taking you all to fish for a few hours. Thanks for all you do. Will see you next year to take on the fish
Jon Sessler said on Aug. 11, 2010 at 9:32pm
It is our privilege to be able to entertain you guys. Thanks for allowing this opportunity.
Larry Enyart said on Aug. 12, 2010 at 8:56am
I hope you guys enjoyed the day as much as we did. It was a privilege to be able to spend some time with the men and women that have devoted so much. Thank you for your service and for the great example you provide for the generations of the future.
I hope to see you again next year.
Larry Enyart
Chad Simon said on Aug. 12, 2010 at 4:47pm
It was indeed an extreme privilege. I have the upmost amount of respect for our soldiers. They are the reason we're so priveleged to be able to bass fish, and live on this great land! I absolutely can't wait until next year.
Thank You, and God Bless!
Chad Simon
Willie Parsons said on Aug. 13, 2010 at 12:42pm
It has been an honor to be able to share the day with everyone that came out and enjoyed the time with us, it is a small gesture for all you do for us and our families and we look forward to doing it again next year.
Shannan Jones said on Aug. 13, 2010 at 5:55pm
What a great day! Thank you to the soldiers and your families for your selfless service to this great nation and for advancing the cause of freedom around the world. You make me so proud to be an American. May God Bless all our soldiers and keep you safe. Shannan
Johnny Walker said on Aug. 27, 2010 at 9:24am
It's was a blast! You soldiers are the backbone of this country... back bone meaning you hold it up through the thick and thin. Your families efforts and your individual patriotic contributions are to commended. God Bless you all and it's a pleasure to spend the day with you all.
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