It’s hard to imagine that a small community like Port O’Connor plays host to the largest event of its kind in the world – Warrior’s Weekend. And it’s been doing so every May since 2007.
For anyone who’s not from around here and somehow never heard of “Warrior’s Weekend”, here is the group’s mission statement: Founded in 2007, Warrior’s Weekend is a non-profit, 501 (c) 3 Corporation dedicated to the support of veterans of The United States of America with an emphasis on those wounded in The Global War on Terrorism. This is accomplished through holding an annual fishing event for wounded military personnel in May in Port O’Connor, Texas as well as donations to veterans and veterans-based causes.
Last year the event hosted over 800 wounded veterans and their families and this year more than 900 are expected. Most who have been a part of the event request to be included again and the Board of Warriors Weekend does not turn them away.
Board President, Ron Kocian, when asked why no celebrities are involved in promoting Warrior’s Weekend, said, although they have been approached by some, “This is about the guys, fishing, and Port O’Connor.”
The Board of Directors, all unpaid volunteers from the Victoria area, devote a great deal of their time all year to planning the event and raising funds to make it happen. Last year’s event cost $800,000. Much of the funds are raised at the Warrior’s Weekend Muster, a dinner, auction and raffle held at the Victoria Community Center (this year on March 21).
A great many of these wounded warriors have expressed how meaningful was the reception they received here in our area, the fun of their fishing experience and how touched they were by the kindness and expressions of appreciation for their service. Many have said it made a huge difference in their lives.
But to accomplish the goal requires many volunteers. The most obvious needs are housing and boats, but from setting up to cleaning up – there is something for everyone to do. Even if you have only a few hours of time to give, your help is needed and appreciated.
The first meeting of local volunteers was held on March 5, where volunteers heard updates from Board members. The next volunteer meeting will be held April 9, 6:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. We hope to see you there!
For more information, go to www.warriorsweekend.org.
