4th of July

As you, celebrate the anniversary of U.S. independence this forth of July please pause and reflect on the men and woman that have sacrificed their health and lives for the freedoms the we as Americans share. Several kayaking enthusiasts keep a special place in their hearts for our veterans.

There are several ways that a person can make a positive impact in the lives of our service men and women, instead of standing along a road holding a sign. You can donate money to the Wounded Warrior Project. Alternatively, you can volunteer at your local VA.

As kayakers, we donate our time to Team River Runner. On August 2004 Joe Mornini established this all-volunteer organization of kayakers in the Washington, DC, area to promote health and healing through whitewater boating. They work in partnership with The Wounded Warrior Project and Disabled Sports USA, Team River Runner helps veterans of the Iraq, and Afghan wars recuperating at Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC) find health, healing, and new challenges through whitewater boating on the Potomac River. While the focus of Team River Runner’s work is on soldiers recuperating at WRAMC, Team River Runner also provides whitewater boating opportunities for family members as well as for other wounded veterans. There are also several other chapters throughout the United States.

If you are on the water watching your local fireworks display on the Forth of July please watch out for poorly lit, and drunk power boaters. Just take a brief moment to reflect on the sacrifices of the people who are responsible for our independence. You could even leave a flower in remembrance of those who never returned home.

—Jeff