More than 40 wounded veterans and their families are vacationing in Panama City Beach this week as part of the "Wounded Warrior Beach Retreat." Local businesses and individual sponsors offered the heroes free airfare, accomodations and activities.

A weekend of deep sea fishing, parasailing, boat rides and fantastic food awaits the men and women being honored during retreat. It's a chance for our community to show appreciation for those who have sacrificed so much in the line of duty.

Members of the local Patriot Guard escorted the motorcade Thursday evening to begin the four day-long tribute to the "Wounded Warriors." Citizens lined the route, holding signs and waving American flags, honoring the vets. The group then attentded a private dinner at the Shrimp Boat restaurant. Families who lost a loved one in combat were honored with a plaque, as well as a bracelet for the mothers.

It's just the start of a weekend organizers hope will make the wounded warriors feel honored and appreciated. Organizer Linda Cope, who's son Joshua who was severley injured in Iraq, hopes retreats like this one will catch on. "My vision for this is for other communities to do what we do because there are so many wounded and fallen families that need to feel appreciated."

The soldiers truly appreciate all that's been done to bring them together. "Linda Cope is an amazing woman to plan this spectacular event to bring people that have been through similar situtaions together. You know you can only really relate if you've been through it. It's a very positive thing, thank you to everyone who was involved and donated their services," said Petty Officer First Class Harry Basnight. Basnight was injured in Afghanistan when an IED exploded. Two of his comrades were killed. Doctors say his leg injury should heal completely. He plans to return to his station in Sicily in November.

The public can come out to show their support for these wounded soldiers tomorrow night at Calypso's.