After Action Review
Quarterly Newsletter ( Q4 2025)
RECHARGE FOR VETS | Volusia County | Veterans Recharged, Communities Strengthened
Recharging Veterans
This fourth quarter, Recharge for Vets continued its mission of restoring connection, calm, and confidence by getting veterans and first responders outdoors. While we projected recharging four veterans during Q4, we were proud to exceed that goal by serving five participants—an increase from just one veteran recharged in the third quarter. Through fishing lines cast and first breaths taken underwater, Q4 reminded us that meaningful experiences in nature can create powerful resets—mentally, physically, and emotionally.
The feedback we received from every participant was deeply moving. Each shared that they left feeling not only recharged and renewed, but expressed tremendous gratitude.. This reminded us why this work matters so deeply and it is truly an honor to give back to the public servants who give so much of themselves, and to show them that they are cared for, valued, and sincerely appreciated for their service.
October 24 – Inshore Fishing Recharge
Three Army soldiers currently serving as Station Commanders took time away from leadership roles to reconnect on the water:
SFC Kevin Hartzel – Former MP, now 79R Station Commander, St. Augustine Station
SFC Luke Fagan – Former 11B, now 79R Station Commander, Daytona Station
SFC Scott Bove – Former 11B, now 79R Station Commander, Orange City Station
With no schedules and no expectations, the day offered space for camaraderie, reflection, and genuine connection—exactly what a recharge is meant to be.
November 14 – Discover Scuba at Blue Springs State Park
James Koch, a U.S. Marine Corps Infantry veteran who served six years including deployment to Iraq, joined Recharge for Vets for a Discover Scuba experience. Now a Field Training Officer and Firearms Instructor with the Orange City Police Department, James was nominated by fellow officer Jason Sampsell, who highlighted James’ leadership, resilience, and dedication following years of challenging service in combat and law enforcement.
Joining James was Josh Hoffman, a motorcycle officer with nearly ten years of service, who embraced the experience alongside him. Together, they stepped outside their comfort zones, supporting one another as they experienced the calm and focus that comes from being fully present underwater.
The morning dive became a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience when more than 150 manatees flowed through the crystal-clear springs during the early hours of the scuba dive. Surrounded by these gentle giants in their natural habitat, the moment was both humbling and unforgettable—an extraordinary reminder of the peace, connection, and renewal that the underwater world can offer.
Why It Matters
Recharges aren’t just activities—they’re intentional moments of restoration. Whether on the water or beneath it, these experiences allow veterans and first responders to reset, reconnect, and return stronger.
By the Numbers
5 Veterans Recharged • 2 Projected 1st Quarter 2026 • Hundreds of Volunteer Hours • Countless First-Time Smiles • 100% Would Do It Again
Looking Ahead
As we close out the year, we remain grateful for the donors, volunteers, and partners who make these Recharges possible. Together, we’re continuing to strengthen veterans—and the communities they serve.
Looking ahead, while our goal is to host monthly Recharge events, our current focus will be on fundraising through grants, private donors, and other strategic efforts to build the resources needed to reach that vision. In 2026, we are committed to hosting one Recharge event per quarter as we lay the groundwork for sustainable growth.
