MORAVIA, Iowa -- The Iowa DNR is partnering with the VA to host the 17th annual Veterans Casting Away Disabilities event next week, May 6-12 at Honey Creek Resort at Rathbun Lake.
The weeklong fishing getaway will give 65 veterans from Iowa and around the Midwest, suffering from major traumatic injuries after combat, a chance to enjoy a somewhat normal life and build comradery with dozens of other vets coping with life-altering injuries.
This is the largest number of veterans that Veterans Casting Away Disabilities event has ever hosted. The veterans range in age from 24 to 96 and suffer from many disabilities including PTSD, lost limbs and traumatic brain injuries, among others. This week allows the veterans and 38 caretakers to share their stories in a trusting, comfortable and therapeutic setting and spend time on the lake fishing.
Each day, 32 volunteers of DNR, VA and other staff will assist the veterans on and off the 36 boats and with cleaning the fish they catch. Each evening includes different presentations from the DNR and other guests and surrounding communities, a campfire and a fish fry.
Media are encouraged to attend and can be coordinated by reaching out to Alex Murphy, DNR Director of Communications.