Paddling for Freedom - One Veteran at a Time

Join Me in the Fight Against Veteran Suicide—Help Save Lives!

My name is Rick Swain. After 22 years of service in the Army, I've witnessed the devastating impact of veteran suicide firsthand—losing more friends to suicide than to combat or training. This crisis is real: a 2012 Veterans Affairs study estimated that 22 veterans take their own lives each day. Though the numbers have improved, the struggle remains, and I cannot stand by any longer.

Last year, I nearly lost one of my closest Ranger buddies. Thankfully, he reached out before it was too late. When I saw the pain and suffering in his eyes, I knew I had to act—for him, for all Rangers, Warriors, and Veterans. Through my own journey and alternative therapies, I've found hope and healing. Now, I want to share that hope with others who need it most.

That’s why I’m launching Paddling for Freedom - One Veteran at a Time—a campaign where I’ll paddle 94 miles on the Penobscot River in Maine, starting October 1, 2026. Each mile honors a fallen 75th Ranger Regiment member lost in combat from Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada through the Global War on Terror. A section of the river passes under a bridge that is dedicated to Medal of Honor recipient MSG Gary Gordon. MSG Gordon, from Lincoln, Maine, was killed in action during Operation Gothic Serpent in Mogadishu, Somalia, on October 3, 1993. Mile #21 will be dedicated to him as I pass under the bridge named in his honor on October 3, 2026, marking the 33rd anniversary of his sacrifice. I recently had the honor of meeting fellow Maine Guide Paul House, who shared the tragic story of his son, SGT Joel A. House, killed by a roadside bomb in Iraq. Joel grew up in Lee, Maine, and was an avid outdoorsman. In his memory, I will dedicate Mile #30 to Joel and his family. At every mile, I will drop a rock into the river bearing the name of one of these 94 fallen heroes, honoring their sacrifice and keeping their memory alive.

All funds raised will go directly to Knot Lucky, a non-profit run by former 1/ 75th Army Ranger Jimmy Armel, whose mission is “Healing Vets with Fishing.” Your donations support fishing trips, housing assistance, mental health care (including alternative therapies), holiday meals, and crisis intervention for veterans. I’ve spent time with Jimmy and Knot Lucky, witnessing their extraordinary results and unwavering dedication. This campaign is my way of helping them continue saving lives—especially those battling with PTSD, TBI, and Addiction.

I need your help. Please donate, share this campaign, and spread awareness. Your contribution—no matter the size—can directly impact a veteran in need. Together, we can fight the epidemic of veteran suicide and honor those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice.

Donate today. Share with your friends and family. Help us heal, one veteran at a time.

• Donate: [https://gofund.me/2584351f8]

• Share: Tell others about “Paddling for Freedom - One Veteran at a Time”

• Learn More: Visit Knot Lucky and see how your support changes lives

Thank you for standing with us and making a difference. Together, we paddle for freedom—and for hope.

RLTW,

Doc Rick Swain