Wounded soldiers, happy with their catch, at a previous (2010) Warrior’s Weekend.

“We’re looking to bring 400 soldiers to this year’s Warrior’s Weekend, and about the same number of their family members,” said Kelly Parks at the March 13 meeting of Port O’Connor volunteers. “Everything will be basically the same as last year, but will include more of our honored guests.”

Warrior’s Weekend will be held this year on Saturday, May 19, bringing wounded soldiers from military bases around the country to Port O’Connor for a day of fishing, good food, entertainment and fellowship. But the work of Warrrior’s Weekend extends beyond one weekend; it reaches out to veterans of other eras, to families of soldiers killed in action, and to individuals throughout the year.

This will be the sixth year for this grand event to honor our wounded heroes and it is the largest such undertaking in the country. “It takes a big team to do this,” said Ron Kocian, president of the Board of Warrior’s Weekend. There are donors and volunteers from many places, but local help is needed in many areas: decorating, dessert making, lodging, night fishing, and especially boats to take the soldiers out fishing. At least 250 boats will be needed this year. “Boat owners who have participated in previous years can tell you what a rewarding experience it is,” Ron said. “The soldiers are so appreciative and have such a great time. They are really proud of whatever kind of fish they catch.”

If you can help by donating your time and your boat on Saturday, May 19, please email Ron Kocian at ron_kocian@hotmail.com . He will need your name, phone number, and the size of your boat.
To learn more about Warrior’s Weekend and view photos of last year’s event, go to:

http://web.mac.com/warriorsweekend/Warriors_Weekend/Home.html