Fishing for Freedom To Be Held in Hiram

Fishing for Freedom was organized last year by Carlis Baker, an American Legion member at Carrollton Post 143 and a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Outdoors.

Carlie felt a need to offer opportunities for Wounded Warriors and Gold Star Family Members to have an activity where they could meet with their families and enjoy a day outdoors. The 5th District of the American Legion came on board and helped to sponsor the event. This year the Legion is again on board but as co-sponsors.  

All money raised will go to the event.

When the 5th District found out there was a 10 percent surcharge to handle the finances for the event (fishing poles, tents, food, supplies, etc.), district commander Mary Lepley, a retired Army sergeant major, thought the 10 percent charge could be better used to sponsor additional Wounded Warriors and Gold Star Families.

Having the 5th District as a co-sponsor guaranteed this event's finances were 100 percent used to support the participants. Also, many Legion members have stepped up and offered free services to replace services that were paid for last year.

F4F proudly honors the wounded veterans and Gold Star Families of the current wars by taking them out for a day of fishing. Participants spend quality time with their family members and the hospitality and tranquility offered at the site.

The participants have fun without being in the spotlight, feeling uncomfortable, or being surrounded by a sea of strangers or the media.

Ten fishing boats were available last year to transport them around the lake.

Contact the , Fae Casper, at 770-949-2632 for more information about participating.

The costs of the event exceeded $8,500 last year, and more sponsors are needed.

For $50 you can sponsor a Wounded Warrior or Gold Star Family Member. The money provides the fishing gear plus food and drinks throughout the event.

Make checks payable to American Legion and mention F4F in the memo. The address: American Legion, c/o Bob Proctor, 4850 Mockingbird Ln., Douglasville, GA 30135.