Help Repair the Boat that Repairs Wounds of War

Tom Bremer, Juliet Taylor, and Al Meadows are fundraising for Kathy Granfield.

13 years ago Capt. Kathy Granfield started taking veterans with service connected injuries on free charter fishing trips on the family boat, the Black Mariah. Her father, who inspired her work, lived long enough to see her create a charity to expand her program to other New England states. Kathy, a public school teacher, and her mom have since worked together to share the expenses of maintaining the boat.

Because the non-profit she created does not own the boat, its funds cannot be used to cover maintenance, repairs, or operating expenses. This year the boat experienced multiple gasket failures, requiring both engines to be rebuilt. The final bill to rebuild and reinstall the engines will be approximately $25,000, and neither Kathy nor her mom have the resources to cover it.

Black Mariah is primarily used in service to our injured military. Kathy and her crew also do ‘last wish’ trips for veterans at the end of their journey as well. Any help you can provide to Kathy and her mom to repair the boat so they can continue the work of supporting our service members is gratefully appreciated.

• Black Mariah named a Purple Heart Trail Facility, 2021

• VFW Teacher of the Year, State of CT, 2018-2019

• New England Patriots Foundation “Difference Maker of the Week”, 2019

• State of CT General Assembly Official Citation for volunteerism and community, 2016

• Catholic War Veterans Dept. of CT, Patriotic Citizen Award, 2015

• Gold Medal of Merit, American Legion, Dept. of CT, 2012

• American Legion, Dept. of CT, Americanism Award, 2012

"Experiences like these are priceless, as they not only provide these veterans a chance to do something they might not otherwise do, but it gives them a sense of fun and excitement - while done in a small, intimate, and safe group setting - that is so necessary for the healing journey." Jay White, MSW, Readjustmant Counselor

“Since 2001, the United States (U.S.) has been engaged in the Global War on Terror,

with millions of service members serving overseas who have been exposed to the extreme stressors of combat. For me, going fishing is more about catching a break than catching a fish. It’s the time and space Kathy set aside for myself and my battle buddies to unwind.

When Service members return from duty, we are faced with challenges adjusting to civilian life, finding a job, and reconnecting with family and friends. Many of us are dealing with physical injuries that we will never recover from. The support Kathy provides allows me to process stressors, being out on the ocean offers a special opportunity to take a step back from daily routines and enjoy a unique outing with my peers with a bonus of reeling in dinner. Please help keep the Black Mariah afloat”. Juliet Taylor, US Army Combat Veteran

“Hi, Kathy - two weeks ago we lost my dad. It’s been a downhill slide for him ever since his fishing trip. I think that one day is the last day he TRULY got to enjoy himself. And JUST in time. My family and I are ever so grateful to that amazing experience for him. And for you. For making it possible. Thank you for always being your badass self. And for always giving so much of yourself to help others” Sarah Lewoc and family

“Kathy and her crew provide veterans with a relaxing day fishing on Long Island Sound in which their problems are left on the shore. I have personally seen, on numerous occasions, the comradery and TLC that is provided has helped many veterans, especially combat veterans, break their tendency to isolate themselves, and that break helps them in their adjustment to civilian life. Thank you Kathy and her crew!” Al Meadows, Purple Heart; Combat Wounded Veteran.

"Kathy...thank you so much for yesterday. It was a miraculous day for me. Being out on the water gave me such a sense of tranquility and serenity that I can't find on shore. So thank you again for your hospitality and kindness." Greg Harrison

“Thank you Kathy, Mike, and Mike Jr. for a great day and one of the most relaxing mornings ever. Words aren't enough to describe the great work you guys do. Thank you.” Moises Ortega