Welcome to Paddling for Patriots, a non-profit organization founded by Army and Air Force veterans Jerrid and Brandy Beckham, who both proudly served during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. After transitioning from military life, they experienced firsthand the challenges of reintegrating into civilian life. Without the camaraderie, structure, and shared mission that service provides, they saw how easily veterans can feel isolated and unsupported.

In early 2025, they decided to take action and create a meaningful solution.

Our mission is to provide veterans with a welcoming and supportive community where they can reconnect with one another and enjoy exercise through paddleboarding. Through engaging in physical activities like paddleboarding, we help veterans form new bonds, strengthen existing ones, and rediscover the camaraderie they once had in uniform.

We are especially driven to confront the heartbreaking rise in veteran suicide. Nearly 17.6 veterans lose their lives to suicide every day — a statistic we refuse to ignore. By prioritizing mental health, connection, and shared experiences, we strive to create a haven where veterans can find a committed community with their former brothers and sisters in arms. No one should have to struggle alone, and at Paddling for Patriots, they don’t have to.