Mammoth Lakes, CA – The Crowley Fish Foundation, based in Mammoth Lakes, recently partnered with Wounded Warrior Project to host a multi-day fishing event on Crowley Lake for veterans. The initiative was spearheaded by Jeff Rettig, an Iraq War veteran and a veteran’s advisor for the Foundation, who sought to fulfill a long-held promise to "pay it forward" after personally finding profound healing in the Eastern Sierra.
Rettig, who spent five years hiking and fishing his way from Lone Pine to Crowley Lake after his military service, experienced significant trauma during the Iraq War. He found peace in the region's mountains and waters, supported by locals who offered free meals, affordable housing, and fly-fishing tips, consistently asking him only to "pay it forward." Two decades later, Rettig is making good on that commitment by helping fellow service members.
The event, which supported veterans who incurred physical or mental injuries during military service on or after September 11, 2001, was made possible through community collaboration. Kathy Copeland, who recently opened the fully ADA-accessible Jack & Kathy Copeland Fern Creek Lodge in June Lake, hosted the veterans. This lodge, operated by Access Mammoth, was specifically built for people with disabilities. Local fishing guides also contributed their boats and expertise, ensuring a memorable outing for all attendees. The generosity of donors covered all costs for the veterans participating in the event.
Attendees described the multi-day fishing experience as a meaningful success. Jose Mendoza, a wounded Navy veteran and Disabled American Veterans Department of California State Commander, shared that the event provided more than just a day of fishing. He reflected that it offered a sense of peace, brotherhood, and an opportunity to reconnect with himself. Mendoza added that sometimes healing occurs outside traditional medical settings, on the water, surrounded by nature, laughter, and fellow veterans who understand shared experiences. He likened the experience to "finding a piece of yourself again."
United States Marine Corp veteran Richard Galindo echoed these sentiments, noting the excellent views, weather, and fishing. Galindo emphasized that the camaraderie and community really brought it together. He praised the comfortable lodging and the gracious hosts who listened and provided for the veterans' needs, allowing them to relax and enjoy their time.
Rettig expressed deep personal connection to the region and its healing power. He stated that the Eastern Sierra, its people, and its fisheries were instrumental in his own recovery. Driven by this experience, he believes that time on the water can help others heal and finds purpose in bringing serenity to fellow veterans.
The Crowley Fish Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization run entirely by volunteers, supports events like this, alongside fish stocking, educational programs, and other efforts to preserve Crowley Lake and its tributaries as world-class fishing destinations for future generations. The organization has been recognized as a finalist for the 2026 Mammoth Lakes Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit of the Year award. Rettig confirmed that plans are already underway for the next veteran outing, with the potential to host even more service members if donations continue to support their mission. He extended gratitude to everyone who contributed their time, energy, and money to the Foundation and this successful event.
