NOXEN, WYOMING COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Honoring fallen heroes while finding camaraderie and healing in the great outdoors is in store for those taking part in a fly-fishing tournament this weekend.
28/22's Sydney Kostus has more from the non-profit behind the annual event in Wyoming County.
Turning a day on the water into a journey of remembrance and recovery: It's all in a day's work at Patriots Cove in Noxen.
“Our biggest thing is to take men and women who have served that come home with injuries, whether it’s physical, emotional, or a combination of both, and give them access to the natural world," said Jeff Swire, a U.S. Army veteran, as well as Patriots Cove founder and president.
Jeff Swire is the founder and president of the nonprofit that helps veterans and first responders unplug from the world through hunting and fly fishing.
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“The mechanics of that pull you out of yourself and not what you’re thinking and the pain maybe that you’re suffering from. It gives you an opportunity to fully invest yourself in something new and exciting," Swire explained.
He says it’s their way to show appreciation to both military and first responders, something that isn’t done enough.
“We go about our lives working and living day to day, and in the dark of night or in the worst of weather or worst conditions, they’re out there still making the world safe for us," Swire told 28/22 News.
He tells me they have a busy weekend ahead with their 7th annual Fish for the Fallen Tournament on Saturday. But it isn’t just about the catch of the day. It’s a community of heroes coming together with fly fishing rods in their hands and memories in their hearts, honoring those who are no longer here.
Two firemen and six law enforcement officers are honorees for Saturday’s Fish for the Fallen Tournament. Their names will be permanently placed on memorial bricks and then laid in its Walk of Honor.
“Just living up to our commitment that no one’s ever forgotten, so every time we come here, there are more honorees that we can see and always remember their names," Swire said.
Patriots Cove Fish for the Fallen Tournament kicks off Saturday at 8 a.m.
If you'd like to volunteer with the nonprofit in Noxen or donate, you can visit the organization's website.
