FVTU Banquet, Fly Tying this Week

John L our keynote speaker

The 2026 FVTU 25th annual banquet was last night and it was a great success. We had 23 vets and vols on hand. If you add in the significant others, we had 32 or about a fifth of the total attendance.

We didn't all will a raffle, or have the high bid on the auction items. But... We all had a great time. The friendships and bonding in our group really shows.

The keynote speaker for the evening was our own John Lynch. John shared his personal story covering from his time in the military, the challenges of reacclimating when coming home. He covered his personal challenges and his steps taken. His biggest supporter, his wife Katie has been given him strength and support to begin the healing process. Next he credits the the Fly-Fishing program which has now transitioned to our current program new and improved local independent Vets Healing on the Fly.

Vets and vols from the program

Mike, Edwin, Sean and John

Jim I who started it all

Back in 2012, Jim I started this program with about 4 or 5 vols and just a couple of vets. Today we have 40 active vet participants, and a like number of volunteers.

We started with 1 meeting a month and 4 outings, now we meet weekly, with 12 outings, and 2 multiday trips.

We started with a suitcase of supplies and materials, and now operate out of a 10 by 10 shed, not pretty but stocked with Rods and waders plus Vices and tying supplies.

Vets Healing on the Fly is an independent 501[c]3 working with vets with disabilities. We use Fly-Fishing and its associated activities to help our vets cope with the challenges they face every day. This program is offered at no cost to the vets.

This week we will be meeting to tie flies in the evening. This allows those that aren't available days to participate.

See you all next week...

Tight lines,

Don