Bass club members in Afghanistan

One club, the Fayetteville Bassmasters of North Carolina, has six of its members -- soon to be seven -- serving together in Afghanistan.

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Bass fishermen are a patriotic lot, especially in Fayetteville, N.C., where many of the club members are currently serving overseas.

Jeff Narron of the North Carolina B.A.S.S. Federation Nation posted a tribute on the state’s blog to six members who are currently stationed in Afghanistan.

“Let us not forget the individuals, such as these, that provide the freedom that allows us to enjoy the simple things in life, such as outdoor activities, including hunting and fishing,” wrote Narron.

Five of the six members sent in the photo at right. Eric Lochner, who was not available for the photo, is a member of the 3rd Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg, along with fellow club members Kip McNemar, Mike Updike and Mark McCowan. Jim Sheehan and Dave Robison are both retired Special Forces members who are providing support for Special Operations Troops in Afghanistan.

In April, a seventh Fayetteville Bassmasters member, Ron Erb, will join his military friends in service in Afhganistan.

“We wish each of these individuals a safe and speedy return home,” said Narron.