Honoring Service, Saving Lives
A Tribute to Brett A. Maddona & the Mission to Prevent Veteran Suicide
A Tribute to Brett A. Maddona & the Mission to Prevent Veteran Suicide
A Mission Rooted in Brotherhood and Healing
The Military Ministry of St. Mark’s in Birdsboro, PA believes that connection can save lives. Through their deep-sea fishing trips for Veterans and Active-Duty service members, they create more than just a day on the water—they create space for healing, camaraderie, and understanding.
Each trip is dedicated to a service member—someone who served our country with honor and whose story deserves to be remembered.
Honoring Brett A. Maddona
This June, one of these meaningful trips is dedicated to Berks County native Brett A. Maddona.
Brett proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1987 to 1991 aboard the USS Hewitt as a Third-Class Petty Officer and Gunner’s Mate. Like many Veterans, his service came at a cost that followed him home. The invisible wounds of war—memories, trauma, and internal battles—became too much to bear.
In 1992, Brett tragically lost his life to suicide.
His story is not unique—and that’s exactly why this mission matters.
The Reality We Cannot Ignore
Veteran and active-duty suicide remains a devastating crisis. On average, 22 Veterans lose their lives to suicide every day. Behind that number are families, friends, and communities forever changed.
“Any is too many.”
When service members return home, the war doesn’t always end. Many continue to fight battles that aren’t visible—battles that require support, understanding, and connection to overcome.
More Than a Fishing Trip
These 18–24 hour deep-sea fishing trips are designed with purpose.
They bring Veterans and service members together in a setting where they can:
- Share experiences with others who truly understand
- Build trust and lasting connections
- Find moments of peace and clarity
- Begin the process of healing
Over the past five years, more than 200 Veterans and Active-Duty personnel have participated—completely free of charge.
This is not just recreation. It’s therapy. It’s community. It’s hope.
How You Can Make a Difference
In honor of Brett A. Maddona, we are raising funds to continue this life-changing mission and help prevent Veteran and soldier suicide.
All donations will support both the Veterans Coalition of Pennsylvania (VCOP) and the Military Ministry of St. Mark’s Birdsboro, allowing them to expand their outreach and continue providing these critical experiences.
Every contribution—big or small—makes an impact.
All donations are tax-deductible.
Join Us in This Mission
By supporting this effort, you are helping to:
- Honor Brett’s legacy
- Support struggling Veterans and service members
- Provide opportunities for healing and connection
- Take a stand against Veteran suicide
To donate or learn more:
- Follow “Military Ministry of SMLC Birdsboro” on Facebook
- Donate online
- Contact Gene Arantowicz via Facebook Messenger
- Email: Military@stmarkbirdsboro.org
Together, We Can Save Lives
Brett’s story reminds us of the cost of service—and the responsibility we share to care for those who have served.
Let’s come together to ensure no Veteran fights alone.
