Page 17 - VLA Newsletter Fall 2022

BIG CREW—This is the group photo of all the veterans, guides and boat operators as they get ready to hit the lake Thursday, August 25th. Unlike 2021 when the smoke from the BWCA fires wreaked havoc with the event, Mother Nature was much kinder in 2022!
“I’d like to say it is because of whiskey and women, but I’d be lying,” he said with a smile as he prepared to take off from the marina with his son and guide.
The event also holds special meaning for Charles’ son, Jim, who has been attending the event with his father for the past three to four years.
“I used to spend a lot of time up here with my dad as a kid,” said Charles of time spent with his father, who was a game warden before retiring in 1982. “It’s just fun to come back and enjoy what these guys do and what Fortune Bay does for them.”
And for Fortune Bay, they too are proud to be part of such a special event that means so much to so many people here in northeastern Minnesota.
“While the day includes some quality time on the lake, it also represents something more than that,” said Fortune Bay’s Brian K. Anderson in his welcome address. “It is a day for all of us to be able to walk alongside our heroes from yesteryear and today.”
While Anderson said that all veterans deserve our respect, it is truly amazing that in the year 2022, we still are blessed to have some World War II vets in our presence.
“We are truly humbled to be able to enjoy your com- pany for another year,” said Anderson, who thanked the Take a Vet Fishing Committee and the Lake Vermilion Guides League for all the work they do to make the event possible. “Thank you, and enjoy your special day.”
The Vermilion Lake Association would like to thank their partners, the Guides League and Fortune Bay for coordinating this excellent event. Some VLA members volunteer their time and boat to take the vets fishing and we know that the vets really appreci- ate a day out on the water. It is not just about fishing, but telling stories and enjoying the company of fellow vets. A special thanks to Fortune Bay for continuing to provide their facilities for this growing event
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