Veterans take to the water in Armed Forces Fishing Combat Tourney

May 28, 2010

Curtrell Gibson said she's never been fishing before, but was glad to try it out and spend a day with other service members. (Dan Carpenter/KTUU-DT)

by Jackie Bartz
Thursday, May 27, 2010

SEWARD, Alaska -- Hundreds of military members competed in the fourth annual Armed Forces Fishing Combat Tournament Thursday in Seward.

More than 30 local charters pitched in to make the event possible. The sun was out, the fish were biting, and for military members, it was an opportunity to unwind.

The tournament drew more than 300 anglers, both seasoned and not.

"It took a lot (to reel in), it was a lot more difficult than last year. Last year I only caught a 10-pounder, so this was a lot, it was fun," Cody Britton, a U.S. Army mechanic, said.

"I decided to give it a try, plus I've never been fishing before," said Curtrell Gibson, a U.S. Air Force physical therapist.

Different skill levels and different agencies -- Army, Air Force, National Guard and Coast Guard -- fished side by side, swapping tips and stories.

"Well we all fight together, and it's good just to bring together everyone from all different forces and just have a good time to come together. Instead of being over there, it's just a good way to relax, and it's a gorgeous day," Gibson said.

"To unwind, get a chance to unwind, meet some of the other folks within the different services, that's very important to us," said John Bobo, a U.S. Air Force mechanic.

Everyone hopes to catch the big one, but it's also about catching a break.

"It feels really good to come back and just kick back with fellow soldiers and other people, and just have a great time," Britton said.

"It's a lot of fun, everybody's a combat vet; people really appreciate this trip. Everybody in our charter fleet really looks forward to this," said Heather Ronek, the boat's captain.

Not everyone caught a whale of a fish, but most left with their freezers full and a clear head.

The anglers had an awards banquet later Thursday night.

Contact Jackie Bartz at jbartz@ktuu.com

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