Saturday, September 16th was not just another day on the calendar for The Emerald Coast Association of Realtors® (ECAR). We hosted our annual Soldiers on the Water event, a remarkable day dedicated to offering our local combat-wounded veterans a day of world-class fishing on the serene waters of the Gulf. This is our heartfelt way of expressing gratitude, fostering camaraderie, and sharing our mutual love for the outdoors and the sport of fishing.

This year, we're thrilled to share that we placed 88 veterans on fishing charters. With the support of 12 incredible boats, numerous deckhands, and a team of dedicated volunteers, we made sure the day was memorable and enjoyable for every participant. And trust us when we say that the veterans had an unforgettable time—just take a look at the pictures on the ECAR event page!

A day like this wouldn't be possible without the immense support and commitment we receive from our community. A big shoutout goes to all the selfless volunteers, the skilled captains, the hardworking deckhands, and especially to Brotula’s Seafood House and Steamer for graciously hosting the event. Your support not only made this day possible but also helped create lasting memories for our heroes.

Reflecting on my personal journey with this initiative, I feel compelled to share my feelings. Serving on this task force has been both an honor and a privilege for me. This year marked my 7th consecutive year being part of this commendable endeavor, and every time, the experience just becomes dearer to me. Our passionate task force collaborates for months with community partners and our local fishing fleet to orchestrate this event. The sense of fulfillment I derive from it is immense, especially considering the sacrifices these brave souls have made for our nation. Being a military spouse for over three decades, I have a profound sense of appreciation for what these veterans and their families have contributed to our country. Their resilience, courage, and sacrifice are unparalleled, and events like Soldiers on the Water are just a small gesture to convey our boundless gratitude.

 

Here's looking forward to another year of fishing, fun, and heartfelt gratitude. See you on the water in 2024!