Freedom Alliance
Dear Editor: The Freedom Alliance organization would like to say thank you to an amazing Sitka for the welcome they received this year.
Twelve men and three members of the Freedom Alliance program were in Sitka recently, for a three-day, four-night stay. Freedom Alliance has been working with Vonnie’s Charters at Halibut Point Lodge for many years to bring groups of combat warriors to Sitka for a fishing adventure. The Sitka community has shown an overwhelming appreciation, every year, toward the men.
We would like to say thank you, especially to the following businesses and people. Providing dinners during their stay, were the Mean Queen, Crab Shack at Halibut Point and the Sitka Elks Lodge and the Nugget Restaurant. Stops at the American Legion, Ernie’s bar, and the Pioneer Bar allowed the men to enjoy local camaraderie and conversation.
A shout out to the Sitka Police Department, Sitka Fire Department, the U.S. Coast Guard, State of Alaska-Rocky Gutierrez Airport, the American Legion and dozens of community members that greeted the men upon arrival at the airport.
Gift bag treats provided by Sweet Sisters Caramels, Theobroma Chocolate Company, Alaska Pure Sea Salt Company, Highliner Coffee, the Donut Lady, Sitka Swirls, American Legion Post 13, iBling4You and the Starnes family.
The companies that to the men fishing were Vonnie’s Charters captains and deckhands, Justine and Liam with Big Blue Charters and Kris with Island View Charters. Processing was done by Sitka Sport Caught and Scott Johnson provided incredible meals while at the lodge.
Thank you all for welcoming the Freedom Alliance combat warriors to Sitka. They had a great time!
Vonnie Grun, Sitka,
Vonnie’s Charters
at Halibut Point Lodge
