Got Your 6 Fishing helps veterans and active duty military suffering from post-traumatic stress and other mental health issues learn coping skills. The scenic waterways of Washington State are utilized to provide healing recreation to these warriors.

Founder and President of Got Your 6 Fishing, Staff Sgt.(R) Ryan Caldwell found his life crashing down upon him when he and his team were attacked by a suicide bomber while on patrol in Iraq in 2004.  Caldwell was severely injured and then medically retired from the Army in 2005, after a career which included deployments to Somalia, Haiti, Bosnia and Iraq. He found himself suicidal and deeply depressed.  

A fly fishing event for veterans in Montana rekindled his passion for the serenity found on the water. He found his depression lifted and his suicidal thoughts left him. Caldwell was from Olympia and grew up fishing and spending time in the beautiful outdoors of the Pacific Northwest.  Using his own money, he was soon taking his peers on fishing trips, hoping he could help them find the healing relief that he did while out on the water.

In a bit of fate, Caldwell met Erin McMicheal when he participated in her equine therapy group for active-duty military and veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress. She noticed that he was always encouraging others in the group and soon found out about his fishing trips.

"I knew Ryan was helping other vets and that's something I've always had a passion for.  I didn't think it was right for him to be covering all the costs out of his own pocket.  He knew all about fishing and how difficult it is to return to civilian life.  I knew how to start a nonprofit and raise money.  It only made sense to me that we combine our experience to further his vision," said McMicheal. She now serves on the board for the nonprofit as the secretary. The two were joined by five other board members and advisors.

Got Your 6 Fishing is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization name after the military term that means "I've got your back." The group is totally funded by donations and receives no federal funding. Caldwell wants those suffering to know they are not alone. He wants them to consider coming out for a trip. Something as simple as a fishing trip can be a first step towards healing. You can come alone or with your military friends or family.

On June 3, the group will host their 2nd annual dinner and auction. Reels and Wheels as the event is called takes place at the LeMay Collection at Marymount.  Attendees will enjoy a catered dinner and can tour the LeMay antique and classic car collection. Learn how Got Your 6 Fishing served over 200 veterans and active duty military. Help support the group by bidding in the live and silent auction. Every $150 raised will send two military members or veterans on a fishing trip.

Reels and Wheels, 6 p.m., Saturday, June 3, Marymount Event Center, 325 152nd St. E., Tacoma, $50, 509.607.5550, Tickets: brownpapertickets.com/event/2911400