2026 Southern Vermont Chapter Punta Gorda Fishing Excursion

We want to recognize and express our sincere appreciation to Bill and Leah LaTour, and to Mike and Debi Davenport from the WWIA Southern Vermont Chapter. Bill and Leah were our honored guests at our 2026 WWIA Southern Vermont Chapter Punta Gorda Fishing Excursion, held February 13th-15th, and were accompanied by Vermont Chapter President Mike Davenport and Vermont Chapter Treasurer Debi Davenport for a weekend full of sun and fun. Bill and Leah have been tremendous supporters of WWIA and our mission to bring Honor, Connection, and Healing to our Purple Heart Heroes.

This exciting all-inclusive trip was held at Fishermen’s Village in Punta Gorda, Florida, and was offered as a raffle prize during the 2025 Southern Vermont Chapter Fundraising Dinner where their community raised a remarkable $90,265.60! This weekend excursion included lodging, a full day of fishing, fresh southern and seafood dinners throughout their stay, shopping, and some time spent enjoying the sights around beautiful Punta Gorda.

Mike, Bill, and WWIA Founder and CEO, John McDaniel, hit the water and had an awesome time as they caught a variety of fish while sharing stories, laughs, and enjoying great conversation throughout the day. They brought in some nice snook and redfish during their time together. None of this would have been possible without the expertise and guidance of Captain Mike Downs, from Task Force Fishing Charters. Captain Mike is a Florida native who also serves as a Charlotte County Marine Operations Firefighter-Paramedic, and he did a spectacular job putting everyone on fish. Thanks to Mike, it was a memorable and outstanding day on the water. While the gentlemen had their fill of fishing, Leah and Debi were accompanied by WWIA’s own Nichole Veesaert as they had a blast visiting boutiques, specialty shops, galleries, and restaurants, as well as the Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary. There was plenty more to do throughout the weekend and it was an exceptional time spent with some wonderful and faithful WWIA supporters.

We would like to honor and give special thanks to the entire WWIAF Southern Vermont Chapter for their stellar support and fundraising efforts throughout the years. The Southern Vermont Chapter is a 2x WWIA Medal of Honor Decorated Patron, having collectively raised $649,795.00 in support of our Heroes since 2013! JUST INCREDIBLE! We are humbled by your dedication and patriotism and honored by your exemplary support for WWIA and our Purple Heart Heroes! Thank you all! #WWIA