JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (June 10, 2026) — The 17th annual Oorah vs. Hooah Fishing Battle was won recently by the Army team, giving Team Hooah bragging rights for the year.
Hope For The Warriors (HOPE) and Dr. Richard Weisler hosted the annual offshore fishing tournament for 30 service members and veterans, pitting a team of Marines and sailors against a team of soldiers on the Vonda Kay out of Carolina Beach.
The tournament title is awarded to the team landing the largest fish. The Army team took home the win with the largest fish, caught by U.S. Army veteran Robert “Shrek” Harrell: a 33-pound, 17-inch tuna. Harrell also secured the second-largest fish, a 12-pound, 28-inch gag grouper. Together, both teams brought in 72 fish, but it wasn’t who won or lost that made the day a success for all who participated.
Participants shared their experiences from the day:
“Thanks so much for inviting me to the event and allowing my daughters to attend. They had a great time and hope to come again. It was the first time we got to experience something like this, and it meant a lot. I look forward to doing it again.”
“It was great for me to go out and do this today. I need to take more time for myself. Being around other veterans was great. I got to see how HOPE works in a real way, not just with check-ins over the phone. Peer connection is so much better in person, and I look forward to coming to peer group after talking to some of the other veterans.”
Founded in 2006, Hope For The Warriors is a nonprofit with a mission to deliver unparalleled services that uplift individuals and their families as they navigate the complexities of military life.
“Peer support is one of the greatest strengths we can offer active-duty service members and veterans,” said Robin Kelleher, founder and CEO of Hope For The Warriors. “Through the generosity of Dr. Richard Weisler, this 17th annual fishing tournament became more than a day on the water — it became a powerful reminder that healing happens in community, hope grows through connection, and no one has to navigate the journey alone. Moments like these inspire resilience, strengthen camaraderie and affirm the lasting impact of standing together.”
For more information on Hope For The Warriors, visit hopeforthewarriors.org.
About Hope For The Warriors: Hope For The Warriors (HOPE) is a national leader driving transformative change for the post-9/11 U.S. military community, including veterans and active-duty service members, military caregivers, spouses and family members, and families of the fallen. At HOPE, our mission is to deliver unparalleled services that uplift individuals and their families as they navigate the complexities of military life. We are committed to fostering resilience and a sense of purpose, ensuring that those who have served our nation will thrive. Together, we forge a strong community that champions courage, commitment and grit. To learn more or support our mission, visit hopeforthewarriors.org.
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