Founder, The Late Jim Dolan
When Heroes on the Water started in 2007, it was because a group of enthusiastic, like-minded people decided to do something amazing with one man who felt compelled to lead the way – Jim Dolan.
“He has left a legacy that will shine forever… RIP Jim and thank you for sharing your love of fishing in a way that has touched and saved so many lives” – Dadirri_girl
“As a member of the North Texas Association of Air Force Academy graduates I remember Jim caually mentioning to us at one of our luncheon meetings about this new venture that he was about to undertake. I cannot believe how far that one dream he had many years ago has blossomed into the great organization that HOW has become. I was one of the first supportes of HOW at the very founding days of the organization. I will always remember Jim for his wisdom and foresight and his willingness to go above and beyond in support of disabled veterans.” – BJ Bjorklund
“I remember sitting at the same table with Jim at a Dallas Chapter CCA banquet and auction. Jim was starting to tear up while sharing some stories of how several warriors reacted on their first HOW outings. I still share those stories.” – Mike Stovall
Jim and Heroes on the Water
Operation “Double Dip” – The Man behind the Myth
When Heroes on the Water started in 2007... there were no focus groups, or high-end consultants. Just a team of people coming together with one man who felt compelled to lead the way – Heroes on the Water founder, the late Jim Dolan.
Operation “Double Dip” – From Hardship to Hope
“He got out of that kayak and started talking about what a great time he had, how many fish he caught. It took about 20 to 30 seconds before we all realized he was no longer stuttering,” says Dolan. “The stutter returned, but it boosted him in a major way. He told us he had been at BAMC for two years without any progress. He said, ‘Now I have hope.’”
Operation Double Dip – Get Up and Live!
“It’s incredible to me that it’s gotten as big as it has and is as well run and effective as it is,” says Jim. “Something so simple is so powerful. It blows me away.” From those early days where everything was grass roots, growing to a national organization is still surreal for Jim.
