Eleven veterans who received the Purple Heart after being wounded in action were celebrated during the 14th Wounded Warriors in Action event in Ashtabula, Ohio. (Wounded Warriors In Action via Instagram)
(Tribune News Service) — Eleven veterans who received the Purple Heart after being wounded in action were celebrated this weekend during the 14th Wounded Warriors in Action event in Ashtabula, Ohio.
The veterans came from all over the country, as the organization honors veterans for their service, and encourages them in their work of healing.
“You couldn’t have a better time, it is like family ... you all come together,” said Ellis Martin, of Summit, Miss., who served in the U.S. Army from 1982 to 2007 and also spent time in Iraq.
The participants travelled from Mississippi, Georgia, Minnesota, Texas and many other states, said Joe Kalley, one of the event organizers.
Locals cheered on the veterans at Lake Shore Park and intersections as they were escorted by a caravan of motorcycles through town Friday. Traffic was stopped along their route so they could pass unimpeded.
Alexander Fort, of Georgia, said he “never fished at that level” after returning from a morning on Lake Erie. Fort served from 1999 to 2017.
Although the veterans enjoyed the fishing trip, many said the highlight of the weekend was spending time with one another.
“Family, that’s what it is,” Fort said.
Mark Carr, a fishing boat captain, attended in support of the event.
“It is [a] very humbling experience. I didn’t serve, so this is my way to serve,” he said.
The Team Erie portion of Wounded Warriors in Action coordinates the event, securing donations to fund it every year. The Ashtabula American Legion donated to the event and hosted a steak dinner on Friday evening after the tour of the town. Kister Marina hosted the veterans as well.
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