The annual Kayak Trip held by the Paddle for Heroes Veterans Organization takes kayakers on a six-day trip along the Kokosing, Walhonding, Muskingum, and Ohio rivers. The Dresden Boat Ramp is one of the stops on the journey which takes place at the end of May.
Each year the group dedicates the event to a fallen veteran. The journey is tough and each participant is encouraged to think about the sacrifices of our veterans, first responders and the fallen.
This year the 162 mile Veterans Awareness Kayak trip will be dedicated to SSG Shamus O. Goare of 3rd BN 160th SOAR.
SSG Goare is described by his friends and colleagues as a quiet young man who liked engineering and never sought fame or fortune. It was no surprise that he volunteered to be a flight engineer with the elite 3rd Battalion 160th Special Aviation Regiment or 3rd Bn 160th SOAR, also known as the Night Stalkers.
SSG Goare gave his life on June 28, 2005, alongside 16 of his brothers during the deadliest time of the Afghanistan War.
Even though SSG never bragged about his service, he was the recipient of many awards. One of the most noteworthy was the Air Medal with V device, V for Valor. This award was earned by flying in doctors’ and medical supplies for children in the war-torn region of Afghanistan.
Learn more about Paddle for Heroes by visiting paddleforheroesmidwest.org.
