“It is in short, an event that gives back to not only the veterans, but the whole community and beyond,” said Ralph Fatello. “The Wounded Warriors Hit the Beach day is something that once you’ve seen it, and been a part of it, you will never forget.”
This year’s Hit the Beach Day at Hampton Beach had its biggest turnout ever. With forty veterans and dozens of volunteers, the Wounded Warriors Project, the American Legion Post 35, and the Hampton Fire Department helped vets from all backgrounds spend a few hours chasing waves.
“It’s just unbelievable,” said Michael Grimm, alumni manager from the Wounded Warriors Project. “I haven’t seen too many other events that have this many hands on supporting warriors.”
Ralph Fatello, the man who organizes the event, has been surfing since the mid-‘6os. Then, in 1969, he went to Vietnam. Like many others, when he came home, nothing was the same. He says that surfing saved his life.
“I realized surfing saved me,” Fatello told Seacoast. “It helped me to transition from Vietnam. It was something I didn’t talk about.”
To help out at the event or to donate, contact American Legion Post 35 or email Ralph@adlantic.com.
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