In January 2010, Alex Blue was elected to serve on the Board of Directors for the Non-Profit Organization "Heroes on the Water". Based in Texas, Heroes on the Water serves all military personnel who have been wounded, injured or disabled while serving on active duty, in the reserves or national guard.

The primary goal of the program is to assist these injured service members with their physical and mental recovery by introducing them to the therapeutic qualities of fishing from kayaks. The program allows the participants a chance to decompress from the stresses associated with combat and the physical rigors of rehabilitation. Participants enjoy these benefits while on guided fishing trips held at various locations around the country.

Originally developed for patients at Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) on Fort Sam Houston, the program quickly expanded to Darnall Army Medical Center on Fort Hood, TX. Now, due to the programs unparalleled success, it is expanding operations to the four remaining U.S. Army major trauma centers; Evans Army Medical Center on Fort Carson, CO, Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC, Womack Army Medical Center on Fort Bragg, NC, and Madigan Army Medical Center on Fort Lewis, WA.

The program provides basic kayak fishing instruction, angling clinics and paddling classes for participants with skill sets ranging from beginners to the most experienced paddlers. The program also assists these personnel in adapting these newly developed skills to their new abilities. Adaptive kayaks, kayaking accessories and angling equipment will be offered on an as needed basis to accommodate a soldiers particular needs.

All kayaks, personal floatation devices, paddles, fishing gear, meals and transportation are provided free of charge to every participant. The volunteer board, staff and program coordinators consist of professional educators, counselors, licensed fishing guides, wildlife and aquatic biologists, active duty and retired military, and experienced kayak fishermen, all of whom donate their time and expertise in support of the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines.

April 2010