About Work Vessels For Veterans

In 2008, John Niekrash, CEO/ Founder and a lifelong lobsterman, achieved a point in his life and career where the lure of a larger vessel was becoming a reality. As his new boat was being built and the idea of what to do with his existing boat lingered. The memory of a recent speech he heard during a memorial golf event resonated.
It was guest speaker Master Sergeant Justin Clough’s story of unwavering dedication and service after having been severely injured in Iraq, that left a lasting impression and a call to action for John. The boat that had served him so well for 17 years must go to one who had served his or her country. The boat was to start a career or enhance a life that had been put on hold while duty called.

Work Vessels for Veterans (WVFV) was born.
John wrote to the Commercial Fisheries News explaining his idea to donate the boat to a returning vet looking to become a lobsterman/fisherman as a career. This story was picked up by numerous outlets and other industry newspapers and magazines.
The only fair way to decide upon the recipient was to donate it to the first vet who contacted John and assured him that the boat would be used not as a pleasure boat but rather as a means to make a living. Marine Reservist Richard Giguere of Rhode Island, returning from two tours in Iraq, was that man. During an April 4, 2008 launching ceremony at the Noank Shipyard, John turned over the keys to Mr. Giguere. Senator Joseph Lieberman (I) who presented John with the Senator’s “Joe’s Heroes” Award. Today Richard he is actively working the boat in Narragansett Bay, R.I. as well as accepting a board position to assist the organization’s future. John now heads this growing foundation and successfully balances, career, family, lobstering and philanthropy.

Mr. Ted Knapp, Vice President of Green Technology recycling, another civilian touched by the generosity of John, was the first to step forward to expand the assistance program. Working his contacts throughout the country, Mr. Knapp has donated dozens of laptop computers to returning veterans in need of a computer to either start a business or to return to their educational pursuits. His energy and enthusiasm will contribute to expanding the reach of this growing organization as he too has joined as President of the all-volunteer WVFV board.

Mr. Dave Mason, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member and founding member of “Traffic”, joined the Board as truly the group’s front man. At each of his concerts throughout the country, Dave has related the stories of the organization, its goals and dreams, urging his audiences to help however they can. His voice, as pure today as it ever was, now sings and speaks with a new purpose and new hope. 

Dan and Kathleen Burns, General Managers of the Noank Shipyard in Noank, CT, refurbish, repair and coordinate delivery of boats donated to vets and coordinate much of the internal and day-to-day workings of WVFV. Their donations of Shipyard labor, use of facilities and passion for the foundation are key to its success.

It is the hope of WVFV to be able to assist as many returning service men and women in staring or re-starting their careers after their military duties have been fulfilled. WVFV is also working to donate tools, vans, tractors and other “vessels” to returning veterans. As each of these individuals embark on their civilian careers, they do so knowing that for those upon whose behalf they have served, we are forever grateful.