Refuge exploration and fishing for soldiers receiving treatment at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center at Patuxent Research Refuge. Photo Courtesy of Ed Grimes.

Patuxent National Wildlife Research Refuge hosted a day of refuge exploration and fishing for soldiers receiving treatment at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center on Thursday, June 12^th.  

The field trip was arranged and supported by staff from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Washington Office, Division of Visitor Services and Communications and Branch of Equal Opportunity and Diversity.

Approximately 35 soldiers and family members participated in a tram tour through refuge habitats and an afternoon of fishing at the accessible Cash Lake fishing pier.

Lunch was generously provided by Chic-fil-a and hosted by Friends of Patuxent with the assistance of staff and volunteers. 

The soldiers seemed to truly enjoy the experience; and those stationed in the area said they would be back with their families.  Others expressed appreciation for the peacefulness and diversion of the experience -- something to keep their minds off of the rehabilitation process and the adjustments of coming back from the war.   It was an extremely rewarding experience for all who assisted.