Mad event 2016 is now over and it did not disappoint. We put together a small crew of surf fishermen with the burning desire to put boots on the beach, and lend a hand to this well worth cause. The organization is first rate and took phenomenal care of us and showed us complete gratitude. None of the previous events or chapters have ever tried to use surf people, so we were breaking new ground. The people from Mad were incredible and honestly the experience was a humbling one. Thank you folks so very much for believing in us, and allowing us to take part in such a gratifying experience. The event kicked off with the captains meeting on Friday. Upon arrival we were told that the strong NE winds were going to be to much for the ferry, and we needed to come up with a back up plan. We were not going to let those soldiers down, no way, no how, and began to devise a new one. By the grace of God we were notified an hour or so later, that Captain Howie was going to make it happen, and we would be putting boots on the beach in the morning. HELL YES, we were back on. Thanks to Adventure Harbor Tours, and an incredible Captain with a heart of gold the soldiers would not be denied their day on the beach. They then offered us some cold beverages and a fantastic spaghetti dinner along with live music. Several vets spoke about the history of Mad and why it originated. The sacrifices that they have made for our country are enough to bring tears to one’s eyes, and the people of our country owe them their due love, gratitude and respect.
The following morning our motley crew of surf fisherman met at the marina, and to amazement we had a crowd of volunteers and soldiers much larger than anticipated. It was on. We were greeted by Captain Howie and a wonderful lady whom I dont know her name, with coffee and breakfast. We loaded up with a crew of 19 soldiers and fisherman and embarked upon a journey which would become the most gratifying fishing day I have ever experienced in my life. Upon arrival we broke off into groups and
I echo what Pete so eloquently wrote. It was very gratifying for me as well. And as much as I enjoy fishing, I seemed to enjoy watching the Troops catch all the fish more! We had folks from Alaska to South Carolina, Men and Women, young an older. Only wish we had time to stay longer so everyone could reel in a 40 incher 
! Can not wait 'till next year!
I am glad to joined this event the opportunity to give thanks to the troops by enjoying the time surf fishing is priceless… Since we are on the other side of the beach here’s a few pictures I can share
A big shout out to the 6 captains that fished on Morris Island on Saturday. It was windy and cold for our first event with cart captains and you guys made it happen for these troops. All had huge smiles and a fun day on the beach because of you. We hope to tweek things next year to make the cart captain option run more smoothly but THANK YOU for making this work this year. It was a pleasure to ride with you all and humbling to see how this gesture of a day on the water can make such a difference to the troops. You guys rocked it!
mrs marshwabbit
Thank you Mrs. Wabbit. Picture number seven say’s it all. The look on that young mans face will be something I’ll never forget. 
Like the others have said, it was a fantastic time and while our group didn’t catch the reds, we caught about 30 or so whiting and 15 or so rays and that shark pictured above. We had three captains to two soldiers in the Army. It was the best fishing day of my life. The stories and camaraderie that we shared was awesome. I plan on keeping in touch with both of my troops as well and hopefully will get to fish with them on their occasional trips back to Charleston.
Thanks to every one at MAD and the other great cart captains. What a great day!
Is this going to be an annual thing? I’d love to jump in and help out next year!
Yes it is a annual event . this was the second event for Charleston chapter, the last MAD event for 2016… Military Appreciation Day
MAD has 5 total chapters ; Lewes Del , Tidewater Va. , Morehead City NC , Southport NC , Charleston SC.
Visit the link in my signature to read all about it and to see pics
from other chapters and past events. Any questions just shoot me a PM.
and thanks for the interest…
George McDonald ; MAD Charleston
[http://www.militaryappreciationday.org
When you see “Old Glory” waving in the breeze, know that it is the dying breaths of our fallen hero’s that makes it wave.
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Nice work Gentlemen. Looks like a fun day !
Jack Taylor