From the battlefield to the bracing waters of New England, our story is one of brotherhood and purpose. Founded by Veterans who traded rotor blades for fishing reels, we’ve built a sanctuary where disabled heroes find peace, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of mission. This is more than a charity it’s a lifelong promise.
Founder & Board President


Every hero here serves with a promise: to stand where they once stood, and to guide the way home.



Our story began not in an office, but on the open water of Jeffries Ledge, between two Veterans. After a decade of flying MEDEVAC missions, carrying wounded warriors from danger, we found our own peace with a fishing rod in hand. In that moment, we realized: if the sea could heal us, it could heal others. So, we made a vow to turn our passion into a mission. Over a year of determined effort, paperwork, and heart, we built this dream from the hull up. In 2022, New Hampshire gave us its blessing, and Rotors to Reels set sail a promise kept, for every hero still fighting the storm within.
We exist to provide a safe harbor for our disabled Veteran community a place where the war inside can finally stand down. Through unbreakable camaraderie and shared stories of struggle and triumph, we rebuild the brotherhood that service forged. We combine this with therapeutic adventures on the healing waters of New England, practical education, and essential ease-of-access items. Every program, every outing, every moment of support is designed with one sacred goal: to give back to the true heroes of our nation. This is our duty. For Veterans, by Veterans. Always.
We are a brotherhood forged in service, now anchored in hope. Our mission is built on a simple, sacred truth: those who have borne the battle understand it best. Here, the healing begins with a trusted hand and a shared horizon.

We do not compromise on integrity, brotherhood, or relentless dedication. Every decision we make is anchored in the same honor and loyalty that defined our service.

We create a space where no Veteran fights alone. Shared stories replace isolation with understanding and lifelong bonds.

The rhythm of the waters of New England, the focus of the catch, the open sky – these elements work together to calm the mind, restore the body, and lift the spirit.

We provide essential tools, adaptive gear, education, and ongoing support so every hero can rebuild independence and purpose on and off the water.

Every dollar goes directly to safe missions and Veteran needs. We vow transparency to donors and lifelong commitment to those we serve.
We are not just directors and officers; we are Veterans, family members, and patriots bound by a single, unwavering mission. Each member of our team brings a personal story of service, sacrifice, or deep devotion to those who served. Together, we channel our skills, passion, and lived experience into building a sanctuary of healing. We believe that to help a Veteran heal, you must first understand the battle and that is a language we all speak fluently.
From the choppered skies of Vietnam, through lifesaving MEDEVAC missions, to combat advisory roles and beyond, each of these leaders has traded one uniform for another to answer the unwavering call of service. Their courage, adaptability, and dedication define the very best of American leadership. Our change in mission has created better and brighter horizons for our veterans with disabilities.
Rodney “Rod” Anderson is a highly respected retired U.S. Army veteran with 32+ years of service (1983–1996, 2002–2023). He completed three combat deployments to the Middle East and two humanitarian missions in Central America, serving as Infantryman, MEDEVAC helicopter Crew Chief, and Operations NCO.
A devoted family man to wife Deb and children Adam, Steven, and Emma, Rod’s passion for fishing fuels his work at Rotors to Reels leading therapeutic fishing trips for disabled veterans in New Hampshire’s waters and Gulf of Maine, veteran-led healing through camaraderie and the outdoors.
Kevin F. Sullivan PhD is a disabled veteran with combat service in the U.S. Marine Corps, whose chance meeting with founder Rod turned into a lifelong fishing partnership. Out on the peaceful offshore waters one day, they discovered the profound healing power of the sea – inspiring them to co-found Rotors to Reels. Kevin dedicated four years to orchestrating donations and raising awareness for our veterans’ healing programs. Today, he continues serving the veteran community through mental health and readjustment initiatives. A proud father, grandfather, and husband to Cathy, Kevin’s legacy drives our therapeutic fishing trips in the Gulf of Maine, offering hope and support to disabled veterans and wounded warriors.
Captain Bill Kingston brings decades of aviation and maritime leadership to the organization. After six years of active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps, including deployments to the Dominican Republic and Vietnam, he resigned his commission as an aviator and transitioned into the airline industry. Bill went on to retire as a DC-9 Captain after 31 years of commercial aviation. During this time, he developed a deep passion for boating, often cruising to Canada each summer. He holds a U.S. Coast Guard Master’s License for sail and power vessels with a towing endorsement and spent the last 26 years in the maritime industry, advancing his credentials to a 100-ton license.
Justin McCarthy is a distinguished combat veteran with multiple deployments to the Middle East. During his military career, he served in several demanding roles, including Combat Advisor, Drill Sergeant, and UH-60 Blackhawk Pilot. His extensive leadership experience and operational expertise play a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission. In addition to his military background, Justin is a U.S. Coast Guard–licensed Captain and an accomplished tuna fisherman. He is married and a proud father of two children, balancing his professional dedication with a strong commitment to family life.
Allison Greenough brings a strong analytical and strategic mindset to the organization as Chief Financial Officer. She holds a degree in Chemical Engineering with a minor in Business, providing a solid foundation in both technical precision and financial management. Joining the organization in 2025, Allison serves with pride and purpose, honoring the legacy of her family members who have served the nation. Her dedication reflects both professional excellence and deep personal respect for military service.
Jeff Garand continues to serve the nation as a senior Operations NCO in the U.S. Army. With multiple deployments to the Middle East, Jeff brings operational insight, leadership, and organizational expertise to the Board. An avid outdoorsman, Jeff enjoys spending time in nature and is a proud father of two daughters. His ongoing service and dedication reflect a lifelong commitment to duty and family.
Derek brings valuable multi-service military experience along with a strong commitment to Veterans outreach and support programs. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 2001 to 2005 and later continued his service with the Army National Guard from 2007 to 2023.
Beyond his military career, Derek is a devoted family man. He is married to his wife, Jess, and together they are raising two stepsons. His dedication to service, family, and community remains at the core of everything he does.