Every Fall, the USMC competes against the USA in a battle of strength and lures. The event pits 18 wounded soldiers from Fort Bragg against 18 wounded Marines from Camp Lejeune in a heated day-long battle to pull in the most fish. Bridge Tender Marina organizes the donation of boats with crew members to make this event possible.The Hope & Morale event begin with a cookout the evening before at the Marina. Early the next morning, the U.S. Coast Guard escorts the sport fishing boats out of the harbor at Wrightsville Beach.

The title has changed hands annually with the Marines from Camp Lejeune winning the first and third years, and the soldiers grabbing the honors the second and fourth years. The largest catch in 2010 was a 67 pound fish.

The Presenting Sponsor for the event is PPD, Inc. PPD is a leading global contract research organization (CRO) providing discovery, development and post-approval services as well as compound partnering programs.

In addition, each year, The John Boy and Billy Grilling Team from The Big Show with John Boy and Billy, a morning radio show based out of Charlotte, NC, hosts a barbecue on Friday evening when the boats return to the dock. John Boy announces the winners following the barbecue, as well as pays tribute to all who make this yearly event possible.

This event has been a huge success each year and 2010 was no exception, in spite of being rescheduled due to weather conditions.

We would like to personally thank:

* Dr. Rick Weisler
* Lisa McLaughlin
* Tripp Brice - dock master at the Bridge Tender Marina
* Kit Taylor
* The John Boy & Billy Grilling Team

Team USMC would like to thank the following boat Captains:
* Captain Alan Toomer - Thunder
* Captain Chris Bailey - Lane Choice
* Captain Bob Rees - Back-N-Down
* Captain Ben Smith - Salvation
* Captain Doug Grant - Agitator

Team USA would like to thank the following boat Captains:
* Captain Van Narron - Above Grade
* Captain Teak Bell - Reality ✓
* Captain Ken Upton - Pole Position
* Captain Adam Thompson - Chicken Ship
* Captain Mel Miller - MaRa II

We would also like to extend our appreciation to the John Boy & Billy Show for highlighting Hope For The Warriors® and the Fishing Battle on their show.

and the winner is.... the Army! (2008)

The Army vs Marine Corps Fishing Battle - This Time it's for Reel will be an annual event for Hope For The Warriors®. The event will be held in the Fall of each year in Wilmington, NC. If you have any questions or would like to participate as a sponsor, please contact Peggy Rochon