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CHATHAM COUNTY, N.C. – Local fishermen took to the water Friday to say thank you to North Carolina’s bravest during the fourth annual Warriors on the Water fishing tournament at Jordan Lake.

The day of bass fishing paired military members with experienced bass anglers.

To military veterans started the event in 2006, and as avid bass tournament fishermen, they wanted to do something for soldiers and airmen returning from war.

“I spent 20 years in the Navy, and I’m here to support these guys and thank them for the jobs they are doing,” Navy veteran Bill Johnson said.

Johnson’s partner, James Martinez of Colorado, has been in the military for 15 years and is currently serving with the Army’s Special Operations Command at Fort Bragg. Friday, the two shared both equipment and stories.

“I think it’s great,” Martinez said. “A good opportunity for the community to get out here and interact with the soldiers and airmen, and the Marines are out here and the Navy guys. It’s a lot of fun.”

The turnout was the highest ever for the event at 150 servicemen and 150 sponsors. In addition, dozens of people volunteered their time to help.

For more information about Warriors on the Water, click here.