BB&E Veterans Support Wounded Warrior Retreat
Fishing for some combat wounded warriors has become a form of “reel recovery” to help them cope with PTSD and other combat-related injuries. On November 5, 2025, BB&E’s retired veterans John Agnew (USAF), Carl Shinall (Army), Bryan Holland (Navy), Corey Kraus (USAF), Jim Eckert (USAF), and Jim Frishkorn (USAF) put Dan Lipinski’s powerful quote into action. “On the Battlefield, the military pledges to leave no soldier behind; as a nation, let it be our pledge that when they return home, we leave no veteran behind.”
The volunteers paired up with 10 wounded combat veterans for a day of deep-sea fishing and friendship aboard the Jubilee Fishing Charter Boat. They provided hands-on support with everything from baiting hooks, to keeping everyone hydrated, to offering encouragement, and sharing a laugh; All while reeling in an assortment of fish.
“I paired up with a US Marine Corps veteran who was recovering from major abdominal surgery. After hooking a nice red snapper, I handed him the pole and encouraged him to reel it in quickly before the dolphins got to it…despite the pain, he dug deep and got the fish to the surface,” said Jim Frishkorn, “It was the largest fish that he had ever caught. Unfortunately, red snapper was out of season, so after taking a quick photo, it had to be thrown back, but we celebrated a great memory!”
The Wounded Warriors had a chance to bond with other veterans who draw on their experiences, mentor, and offer a sense of camaraderie and understanding.
Bryan Holland, a 22-year Navy veteran explained, “I feel strongly about showing my brothers and sisters in arms they are loved, appreciated, and supported.” He added, “I cherish the time spent on the vast ocean alongside Carl, a 36-year Army veteran. We caught two fish at the same. Along with the other Navy and Marine vets I had the pleasure of meeting, it’s crucial to extend that same commitment to our fellow veterans when they return home, ensuring that no one is left behind, regardless of distance.”
Corey Kraus agreed. “It was an amazing feeling to help the veterans and try to repay them for all their sacrifices.” He added, “The real joy I had was the next day when I was fortunate and honored to ride in the Wounded Warrior parade and to see all the people that are supported was truly remarkable.”
The Jubilee crew capped off the retreat by filleting the 32 fish caught during the excursion and chilling them on ice for a scheduled celebratory fish fry, for the Wounded Warriors and dedicated volunteers. The Warrior Beach Retreat, hosted by the Cope family, provides a stress-free, all-expense paid respite for wounded veterans and their spouses/caretakers. The Society of American Military Engineers Panama City Post annually donates to the retreat, funded in part by BB&E’s generous sponsorship to the SAME Post’s Industry Day event.