Vets, Active Military Learn to Sail at "Basic Training Camp"

The Warrior Sailing Program is back at Annapolis Yacht Club, teaching at-risk or disabled military veterans and active-duty service members to sail.

The program returns for its third year October 16- 18. 21 former and current military personnel who have been diagnosed with a disability will learn skills to manage a boat using teamwork, and self-reliance, while also having fun on the water.

According to Warrior Sailing, “while the program highlights skills for participants to manage a boat on the water, another area that is stressed is societal skills, which may translate to personal and job skill development.”

Among the approximate 300 past graduates of Warrior Sailing’s Basic Training Camps, about 75 percent suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or some type of brain injury. Others have experienced any number of illness and injury ranging from cancer to limb loss and paralysis. They range from 19 to 76 years old, from all of the U.S. military branches.

There is no charge for program participants. All adapted equipment, coaching, and logistical support is provided by Warrior Sailing. 

Annapolis Yacht Club says it is “beyond thrilled” to host the program again this year. To learn more about Basic Training Camp, click here.

-Meg Walburn Viviano