At SailAhead, every event is an opportunity to connect, heal, and make a difference in the lives of our veterans. We have the privilege of collaborating with the Long Island Maritime Museum for a day that left an indelible mark on the hearts of all involved. Join us as we relive the moments that made this event truly special.
Our Friends at the Long Island Maritime Museum
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Long Island, the Long Island Maritime Museum has been a steadfast supporter of SailAhead's mission. This historic haven for maritime enthusiasts opened its doors to our veterans, offering an experience like no other. From their extensive maritime exhibits to the timeless beauty of the Oyster Sloop, Priscilla, the museum provided an ideal setting for a day of discovery and camaraderie.
We are deeply grateful to the Long Island Maritime Museum for their many years of support, and dedication to the veteran's community.
Sailing on Priscilla
A spontaneous group hug after a wonderful and healing day at the Long Island Maritime Museum and aboard the Priscilla
The centerpiece of this event was undoubtedly the National Historic Landmark Oyster Sloop, Priscilla. This magnificent vessel, steeped in history and maritime heritage, became a vessel of hope and unity for our veterans. Two groups had the privilege of sailing on Priscilla.
The first group consisted of homeless veterans from the Samaritan Daytop Village Program, brought to us by the UWVC. For these veterans, this voyage was not just a sail; it was a step toward rebuilding their lives, forging new connections, and finding a sense of belonging. We work closely with these two organizations to create extraordinary moments of healing for these men and women who served our country.
Andrew is a veteran who was introduced to SailAhead earlier this year. He has come to most of this year's events, and has spoken about how SailAhead has had a positive impact on his life. Andrew is currently in the Samaritan Daytop Village Program for the treatment of chemical dependencies and post-traumatic stress disorder. Our friends at the United War Veteran's Council help coordinate the operations between SailAhead and the Samaritan Daytop Village. This year we have taken 50 veterans sailing together.
The second group was an all-women's ensemble, highlighting the strength and resilience of female veterans. Their journey on Priscilla was a celebration of empowerment and unity, proving that the healing power of the sea knows no gender.
As the sails billowed and the sea whispered its timeless secrets, veterans from all walks of life came together on the historic Priscilla, finding solace, understanding, and a renewed sense of purpose. The waves of camaraderie that washed over them serve as a testament to the profound impact of these experiences.
SailAhead continues to sail forward, guided by the belief that every voyage brings us closer to healing, unity, and brighter horizons for our veterans. Stay tuned for more stories of resilience and hope as we continue to make waves in the lives of those who have served our nation.
Our Friends at the UWVC
Mark Otto is the founder of the United War Veteran's Council's Health and Wellness Program, and has gone sailing with us frequently since 2017. Mark was greatly inspired to help veterans after learning about the loss of his friend Peter Koffman.
SailAhead is proud to collaborate with organizations that share our commitment to veterans. In this spirit, we were honored to welcome a group of homeless veterans, introduced to us by the United War Veteran's Council (UWVC) and enrolled in the Samaritan Daytop Village Program. This partnership underscores the collective effort to reach out to veterans who may be facing challenging circumstances and offer them a lifeline through the healing power of sailing.
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