After serving in the Iraq War and witnessing trauma that can be difficult to carry home, Jeff Rettig found healing in the Eastern Sierra. Over the course of five years, he made his way from Lone Pine to Crowley Lake, spending time hiking, fishing and finding peace in the serenity of the mountains and water.
Along the way, people offered him free meals, affordable housing and fly-fishing tips. When Rettig tried to repay them, the response was always the same: “We only want you to pay it forward.” Two decades later, he is making good on that promise. Rettig joined the Crowley Fish Foundation, based in Mammoth Lakes, as a veteran’s advisor and, in partnership with Wounded Warrior Project, recently hosted a multi-day fishing event on Crowley Lake. Wounded Warrior Project serves veterans who incurred a physical or mental injury or illness during military service on or after Sept. 11, 2001.
Rettig’s love for Crowley Lake and the surrounding communities is unmistakable. He knows firsthand how time on the water can help a person heal. “The Eastern Sierra, its people and the fisheries literally saved me,” said Rettig. “I know how being on the water can heal a person, and if I can save one soul and bring them into serenity, I will have given back.”
Rettig did not do it alone. Kathy Copeland recently opened the fully ADA-accessible Jack & Kathy Copeland Fern Creek Lodge operated by Access Mammoth in June Lake, built specifically for people with disabilities. When Rettig approached her about the event, she did not hesitate to host the veterans in a place designed with their needs in mind. Local fishing guides also contributed, bringing their boats and expertise to help make the outing unforgettable.
The event was, by all accounts, a meaningful success for the veterans who attended, the volunteers who supported it and the community members who made it possible. Jose Mendoza, a wounded Navy veteran and Disabled American Veterans Department of California State Commander, reflected on the event and said, “The Crowley Fish Foundation and Wounded Warrior Project didn’t just give me a day of fishing. They gave me a moment of peace, a sense of brotherhood and an opportunity to reconnect with myself.”
Mendoza shared that he dedicated much of his life to serving others, but this experience reminded him that sometimes the greatest healing doesn’t happen in a hospital or a doctor’s office. It happens on the water, surrounded by nature, laughter and fellow veterans who understand your journey. “Sometimes the greatest catch isn’t a fish – it’s finding a piece of yourself again,” he added.
United States Marine Corp veteran Richard Galindo echoes Jose’s sentiments saying the views, weather and fishing were great. “The love, camaraderie and community really brought it together. The cabin was clean and cozy and our gracious hosts listened and provided for our needs. Because of their hard work, we were able to relax and have a great time,” said Galindo.
The generosity of donors made it possible to host the event at no cost to attendees. “We are already planning our next outing, and if the donations keep rolling in, we will be able to host even more veterans,” Rettig added. “I have such gratitude for every single person who donated their time, energy and money to Crowley Fish Foundation and this event.”
Crowley Fish Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization run by an all-volunteer team. Donations support events, fish stocking, education and other efforts that advance the foundation’s mission to keep Crowley Lake and its tributaries world-class fishing destinations and preserve them for future generations. The organization is a finalist for the 2026 Mammoth Lakes Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit of the Year award.
To help support Crowley Fish Foundation’s mission and future events, visit crowleyfishfoundation.org to learn more or make a donation.
