A Community Honors Its Veterans with More Than a Day of Fishing

August 18, 2026

Soldiers on the Water Returns Sept. 19

By Lori Miller

With deep military roots and generations of veterans living and working nearby, Fort Walton Beach has a special connection to the upcoming 13th Annual Soldiers on the Water. On Saturday, Sept. 19, combat-wounded veterans will board local charter boats for a day created entirely in their honor.

The Emerald Coast Association of REALTORS® (ECAR), in partnership with the ECAR Foundation, local charter boat captains, sponsors and volunteers, presents the event at no cost to participating veterans. The day combines world-class fishing with fellowship, recognition and the reassurance that their service and sacrifices have not been forgotten.

Since its beginning in 2013 with 35 military participants, Soldiers on the Water has grown to serve more than 100 combat-wounded veterans. Organizers hope to welcome approximately 125 participants this year.

“Soldiers on the Water is one of the most meaningful traditions our Association has the privilege of hosting,” said representatives of ECAR. “This event is about more than fishing—it’s about showing our appreciation, building connections, and giving combat-wounded veterans an opportunity to enjoy a day surrounded by people who are grateful for their service. We are incredibly thankful to the sponsors, charter captains, and volunteers whose generosity makes this event possible year after year.”

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The event will take place behind Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer at the Destin Fishing Fleet Marina. Veteran check-in and a light breakfast begin at 7 a.m., followed by an 8 a.m. boat departure. Participants will spend the morning fishing the waters surrounding Destin aboard vessels provided by volunteer charter captains and boat owners.

After the excursion, everyone will return to shore for an afternoon meal, fellowship and an awards presentation recognizing accomplishments such as the day’s biggest catch and most fish caught. The full event is scheduled from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Soldiers on the Water is dedicated exclusively to combat-wounded veterans. The relaxed outdoor setting gives participants an opportunity to spend time with fellow veterans, form new friendships and experience the camaraderie that develops naturally during a shared day on the water.

For veterans in Fort Walton Beach and surrounding communities, that fellowship can be particularly meaningful since many remain in the area after military service, continuing to work, raise families and serve their neighbors here.

A past participant, Grady B., described the event’s impact this way: “After the retreat was over and back home, I realized that there are people that care about us. Second, this experience has been a great transformation not only in myself but in others.”

His words capture the heart of Soldiers on the Water: Fishing may provide the setting, but the relationships formed among veterans, caregivers, captains, volunteers and community members carry the event’s impact far beyond the day itself.

Answering the Call

Soldiers on the Water reflects a spirit Fort Walton Beach residents know well—neighbors stepping forward to support those who serve.

The event is made possible through the generosity of people and organizations across the Emerald Coast. Charter captains and boat owners provide vessels, equipment, expertise and time. Businesses and professional organizations contribute financial sponsorships and in-kind donations, while volunteers assist with registration, meals, supplies and logistics.

Community support also provides participants with bags containing water, snacks, sunscreen and other necessities. Additional in-kind needs may include lip balm, coolers, raffle prizes, gift certificates and food support.

Fort Walton Beach businesses, civic organizations, professional groups and residents can all take part. Whether someone volunteers, provides supplies, registers a boat or connects an eligible veteran with the program, each contribution becomes part of a larger expression of gratitude.

ECAR represents more than 5,000 REALTOR® members across Okaloosa and Walton counties and maintains an office in Fort Walton Beach. Soldiers on the Water allows the organization to extend its community involvement beyond the real estate profession, uniting REALTORS®, local businesses, charter captains and volunteers in honoring those who have sacrificed in service to the country.

Want to Get Involved?

Combat-wounded veterans must register in advance. There are no tickets to purchase, and eligible veterans participate at no cost. Space is limited, and applicants may be placed on a waitlist.
Local charter captains and boat owners are invited to register a vessel.
Businesses and community organizations can assist through financial sponsorships or in-kind donations.
Fort Walton Beach-area residents interested in volunteering or providing other support should contact ECAR to learn which needs remain.

Veterans can register at form.jotform.com/ECAOR/2026-sow-attendee. Prospective sponsors and in-kind donors can visit form.jotform.com/ECAOR/2026-sow-sponsors. Boat owners, charter captains, volunteers and other supporters can find information at www.emeraldcoastrealtors.com/soldiers-on-the-water/.

For additional information or to ask about remaining opportunities, contact Wendy Permenter at info@ecaor.com.

For Fort Walton Beach—a community shaped by military service and home to so many veterans and military families—Soldiers on the Water offers a meaningful way to honor neighbors whose courage and sacrifices continue long after their uniforms are put away.