Paddle for Heroes Veterans Day 2025 White Caps on the Muskingum

The morning unfolded exactly as the weather service had foretold: it was cloudy and frigid with a strong headwind. The Muskingum River had whitecaps due to wind gusts reaching up to 24 mph, a wind chill temperature ranging from 17 to 21 degrees, and an average water temperature of 47 degrees. It was "perfect" paddle weather for Veterans Day.

This paddle and its challenge, though quite daunting at times, was a small inconvenience to show our support and love to all those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Our group, though small, consisted of experienced paddlers: Veterans, their family members, first responders, and loving supporters. All are vital partners, a family working together for a most worthy mission.

A heartfelt thank you to the Zanesville Yacht Club for your generosity in the use of your launch site, ODNR/Muskingum River State Park and lock tender Dulles for having the locks open and ready for a weary group of paddlers, Brannon Contracting & Maintenance for generously providing us with the gift of a delicious meal at Muddy Misers Restaurant, as well as Muddy's owners, fellow veteran Nate & Tracy Johnson and staff for the loving preparation and fellowship they always provide our small family of paddlers, and finally Whiz News for coming out on a blustery day to report on our our Mission and endeavor.

https://www.whiznews.com/paddling-for-heroes/