Page 16 - VLA Newsletter Fall 2022

IMemories abound for 9th annual TAVF
t never gets old—at least that was the reception Phil Bakken received when giving his traditional opening remarks at the recently conducted 9th
annual Take a Veteran Fishing event.
“Hey, they didn’t boo me this time,” said Bakken with a big smile as he finished telling a joke that he does every year before guides take out our veterans for a morning of fishing on Lake Vermilion.
The joke is aimed at those veterans who never had to deal with rough waters while serving their country.
“I checked the weather this morning, and we are due for some heavy seas,” joked Bakken as he prepared to deliver his punchline that is now synonymous with the event. “They are calling for waves of five inches, so all of you ground pounders may want to pick up some seasick pills before you head out.”
In years past, Bakken’s joke would garner some boos, but perhaps this year’s much better forecast put
the crews in a better mood as they hit the waters to spend quality time on the lake. Over 100 veterans took part in the event, which is a highlight for the veterans and for all the guides from the Lake Ver- milion Guides League and other boat operators who volunteered to work the event.
In 2021, those working the event were blessed to have been joined by six World War II veterans; however, that number dwindled to only two this
World War II Veteran Jim Charles and his son, Jim, share a laugh shortly before heading onto Lake Ver- milion for the 9th annual TAVF event.
year. One of those World War II vets was 99-year-old Navy veteran Jim Charles, who was spending the day on the lake with his son, Jim.
“It’s great, just really great,” said Charles of the event. “Just the fact that at my age that I am able to get out here and fish like a normal person. I have been look- ing forward to this for the past six months.”
While Charles might be slowing down a tad, he still kept his sense of humor, as evidenced when he gave an answer to explain his longevity in life.
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New Dock Signs Show Member Support for our Mission....to protect and improve
These striking aluminum signs with UV pro- tection can be ordered on our website. Please check the website for current prices.
The 12x18 inch sign is designed to attach in either cor- ner of dock front with self-tapping sheet metal screws or stainless hose clamps. Note: many of the dock installers will install the sign at no cost. Please contact your installer for details. Some members are choosing to mount them on their boat houses as well.
16 The Vermilion, Fall 2022