Photo By Master Sgt. Rich Kemp | Mike VonLorenz, a volunteer guide for the Armed Forces Family Fishing Celebration,...... read more read more
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EXCELSIOR, Minn. - “It’s all about the smiles on the kid’s faces.” Those were the words of Mike Kurre, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, when he was asked why the organizations and volunteers helped with the Armed Forces Family Fishing Celebration June 24, 2011, on Lake Minnetonka in Excelsior, Minn.
The free event was for youth and families of service members, as well as wounded warriors and veterans recently returned from deployment. Fishing for Life, Muskies Inc. and Maynard's sponsored the event.
Volunteer fishing guides provided the boats and fishing gear for anyone that needed it. The guides took the participants out on the water for a great morning of fishing action.
“I was in the military, so I like to help out,” said Mike VonLorenz, who volunteered his boat and fishing expertise. “The thrill of watching the kids when they catch a fish makes it all worth it.”
Mike Keith, Muskies Inc., helped organize the event and find the volunteer guides. “We want to provide a wonderful experience and get the kids active in the outdoors,” said Keith.
The families were provided a continental breakfast and then were teamed up with a guide before heading out on the lake. For Sgt. 1st Class Joe Vogel, who returned from a deployment with the 34th Red Bull Infantry Division in 2010, it was a chance to enjoy some time with his son Will.
“We had a blast,” said Vogel. “Will was catching fish and had a smile on his face all morning. He was so proud of the trophy he won.”
“It was amazing, the outpouring of volunteers and donations that were given to the event,” remarked Vogel.
After fishing for a few hours, the guides and families returned to the docks for a lunch that was provided by Maynard’s. The lunch was followed by an awards ceremony with trophies and medals for youth participants.
“Today was about the kids,” said Kurre. “It was great to get the families and kids together to enjoy the outdoors.”
| Date Taken: | 06.24.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 06.30.2011 10:52 |
| Story ID: | 73008 |
| Location: | EXCELSIOR, MINNESOTA, US |
| Web Views: | 79 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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