30 local veterans headed out onto Lake Erie early this morning for a walleye fishing trip organized by the Sons of Lake Erie, marking the first of three outings planned for the summer.
The event, held just after sunrise, is part of the organization’s long‑running effort to honor veterans and celebrate America 250. About 30 veterans took part in the trip, which has become an annual tradition.
Chuck Miller, one of the group’s directors and a veteran himself, said the Sons of Lake Erie has been hosting these fishing trips for more than 15 years.
“We do this to honor all of our veterans,” Miller said. “I know what it means when somebody thanks you for your service, and that’s simply what we’re trying to do.”
The nonprofit relies on donations from community members, social clubs, and veterans’ organizations. Miller said that support makes it possible to offer the trips at no cost to participants.
“We wouldn’t be able to do these trips if it wasn’t for the support of private folks in the community,” he said. “Year after year, they donate from their small games of chance to support our veterans’ programs.”
Beyond veterans’ events, the Sons of Lake Erie runs youth fishing programs, community activities, and a soup‑kitchen fish fry. Membership costs $5 a year for adults and $4 for seniors and juniors, with dues helping fund the group’s outreach efforts.
Miller said the goal of the trip was to give veterans a chance to relax, reconnect, and enjoy a day on the water.
“I hope everybody has the best luck and catches all the fish they can use,” he said.
Two more veterans’ fishing trips are scheduled through the end of July. The organization’s annual fundraising and membership drive begins in August.