Veterans fishing group seeking public support

WASILLA — Allen Shepherd runs a Valley based veterans group that takes local active and retired military on fishing trips throughout the summer. The group is currently in dire need of financial assistance.

“We need more support from community members,” Shepherd said.

One of the most pressing needs is a new boat. Shepherd said they no longer have a boat of their own and they’re currently seeking anyone interested in donating a boat or making a financial contribution to help them acquire one.

Shepherd said they’re still not an official 501©(3), and that makes gathering donations even more difficult. He said that he’s determined to do everything he can to keep this group going.

“It would be a tragedy to see this thing go away,”

We really are all about veterans. Come and get to know us,” Shepherd said. “We’re moving forward. We’re gonna fish and take care of business.”

Shepherd’s veterans group is undergoing some major changes. The group was originally called Hooks 4 Heroes but they had to change the name. He said they’re considering name options with Alaska 22 Crew as the main front runner, but they’re not fully decided.

The 22 comes from a national statistic that states an average of 22 veterans commit suicide every day, according to Shepherd. He said that his main motivation for keeping this group going is to make a difference in local veterans’ lives.

“Until it ends, I’m gonna fight for these guys. I just really care about what they’ve done for this country,” Shepherd said.

Vietnam veteran Larry Vogltanz said the harsh reality is that so many veterans feel alone and disconnected from their communities. He said that groups like this help bring veterans together and prevent suicide.

“If everyone was okay, we wouldn’t have 22 a day,” Vogltanz said.

Vogltanz has participated in Shepherd’s group since the first fishing trip. He said it’s nice to share fishing tips and tricks while swapping stories about their service.

“I love it,” Vogltanz said.

Shepherd said they have a very inviting and laid back atmosphere on every fishing trip. He said that he’s witnessed local veterans come out of their shells and have a great time.

“I’ve watched guys who were hermited up in their houses come out every time,” Shepherd said.

This is Shepherd’s third summer fishing with local veterans. He said their first trip of the season will be at Eklutna Tailrace June 18, starting around noon. He said it’s very family friendly experience and all are welcome.

“It’s always an honor to fish with those guys,” Shepherd said. “This is not for just a certain type of veteran. This is for anyone who served.”

Shepherd noted that any local veterans looking for someone to talk to or go fishing with can give him a call at 907-390-7052.

“All you gotta do is pick up the phone. We’re there for ya,” Shepherd said.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com