2019 Veterans Outing

Today was a special day in the life of your Milwaukee Chapter of Muskies Inc.  We were honored to be able to take 17 local Veteran’s musky fishing on Pewaukee lake, on our 10th annual outing for them!  

The day, we could not have asked for better weather, started out with our vets and captains meeting at Smokey’s for coffee, snacks and final registration.  Introductions and pairings were announced as each boat eased out into the sun rise.
As the teams returned to share their adventures of the day and tell stories; the smiles and laughter is why we do what we do.  The crew was treated to lunch, another wonderful cook-out by John.  Each vet received a gift bag, full of goodies from our little angels Jo-Anne and Jean.  Todd/Nick presented a patriotic TNA Dragon to each also!

Well, we do treat this as a “tournament” and yes we also provide our top 3 finishers with additional gifts!  

1st Place:
      Mike Grimm 38″, and 2 35 inchers! (with Captain Jim Dembiec)

2nd Place:
      Joe Arvoy 36 1/4 incher (with Captain Bob Petzke)      Cory McElhatton 28″ pike (with Captain Joel Walczak)

3rd Place:
      Kerry Murry 20″ pike (with Captain Dave Mirek)
We have to thank;

• Our Vets – For all you do and have done, if not for you, we would not be doing this today!  Thank You for your service!  Over the years, we have had the honor of sharing the day with over 160 men and women of this great nation.  We are eternally grateful to you.
• The Captains –  You give of your time, resources and knowledge.  You make this event happen!  Thank You!
• Jo-Anne/Jean and your crew.  We met a few years ago, the club and I are so blessed to have them run/sponsor the on-shore side of this outing!  Thank you for all you do!
• Dave VanDoorn – Wow! For those of you that have the privilege of knowing this guy, you know just how truly special he is!  We met a few years back and again, grateful is an understatement as to how blessed we are to have him and TAVF supporting and attending our event!!  Thank YOU!
• TNA Tackle – Todd you do amazing work and we truly appreciate your support of our chapter and the musky world.  Thank You!
• Smokey’s Musky Shop – Than You for You support and allow us the use of your place to hold this event.  Everyone loves being on and by the water.  Just a great venue and Rick goes above and beyond to help the crew getting setup.  Thank You!

Begin able to give back is what this event and chapter is all about.  Take time to thank a vet, shake their hand and who knows,,, you may just make a new friend along the way.