Sunrise Coast Pure Michigan Byway

This month a group of Purple Heart recipients are coming to Alpena to work with the non-profit. Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary (TBNMS) offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore maritime history while engaging in meaningful, hands-on conservation work.

During the lecture, Warfighter Scuba board member and technical diver Kevin Sheard will share how scuba diving not only supports physical and mental rehabilitation for veterans, but also empowers them to become citizen scientists — helping TBNMS with documenting historic shipwrecks, monitoring aquatic life, and collecting data.

Expect a fascinating blend of personal stories, underwater exploration, and cutting-edge therapy that’s changing lives. Learn how the serenity of diving and the strength of community are helping veterans rediscover purpose and connection — all while contributing to the preservation of sanctuary resources.

Doors open at 5:30pm and the lecture begins at 6pm.
This event happens in the theater of the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center in downtown Alpena and is free and open to all.