About Us

About Hookin’ Veterans

Hookin’ Veterans is a nonprofit organization 501 (c)(3), founded in 2019 by U.S. Army Specialist (Ret.) Tyler Jeffries. After losing both of his legs after being hit by an IED in Afghanistan and suffering multiple injuries, Tyler spent years recovering from his injuries. He found himself alone and in need of the camaraderie he experienced in the military. That gave him the idea to create a nonprofit organization that would bring other injured veterans together every year for a fishing trip in Florida and along the East Coast.

With support from many great families in Jupiter, Florida, the first Hookin’ Veterans experience was born. Five combat wounded veterans spent four days together fishing on a yacht, as well as being hosted for dinners and other fishing events during their stay. It was so successful that the organization is raising money to host more fishing trips that will keep wounded warriors connected for the long run.

 

Meet the Founders

 

Tyler Jeffries

Tyler Jeffries

Hometown: Zephyrhills, FL
Current City: Stanfield, NC

How did you get involved with Hookin Veterans:
Hookin Veterans has been a dream of mine for many years. Finally I met a group of dedicated professionals who helped turn my dream into a reality. Together, we have created a unique non profit that will bring wounded warriors together for a once in a lifetime fishing experience.

Favorite pastime or hobby:
Fishing, Hunting and just being outdoors. Spending time with my family

Why is helping veterans so important to you:
In the United States less than 1% of Americans have a family member in the military. We are a close knit community and service is our highest calling. That is why as a veteran and a wounded warrior it is my mission to enhance the lives of my fellow veterans and recognize their service and give them meaningful experiences that will last a lifetime.

If you have served or have a family member that served, what branch?
U.S. ARMY

Joseph Buccini

Joseph Buccini

Hometown: Reisterstown, MD

How did you get involved with Hookin Veterans?
Tyler and I met in Las Vegas, NV at an event called “Salute to the Troops, presented by the Gary SiniseFoundation. I was there as a donor/support and he was there to be honored. Since that day we’ve become great friends and done many great and fun events together. After one event we did together a great friend took us on a Chartered fishing trip where Tyler mentioned “I would love to do this for other Veterans”, and then Hookin Veterans was born.

Favorite pastime or hobby:
From a young age I’d always loved being outside and to hunt; and I still do today. Now, I get to hunt in a different capacity a few times a year with Wounded Warriors, great Veteran owned non-profits, and have the pleasure to call them friends. I do love my hobby!

If you have served or have a family member who served, what branch?
United States Army; I’ve Served in OIF, OEF & OND.

Colby Briggs

Colby Briggs

Hometown: Bad Axe, Michigan
Current City: North Palm Beach, FL

How did you get involved with Hookin Veterans?
I was lucky enough to meet Tyler Jeffries on a fishing charter in 2018. During that charter, Tyler expressed his desire to take more veterans on fishing trips and my wheels immediately started turning. His passion and dedication inspired me to help Tyler’s vision come to fruition.

Favorite pastime or hobby:
I love to hunt, fish, cook and spend time with my family in South Florida.

Why is helping out veterans important to you?
I have a deep seeded respect and admiration for the men and women of our military. The sacrifices they make allow us to maintain our precious freedom. Helping Tyler’s vision become a reality is my small contribution.

If you have served or have a family member that served, what branch?
My grandfather, dad and brother all served in our armed
forces and I am an incredibly proud American.