Josh Williams

Josh Williams’ journey exemplifies extraordinary perseverance, courage, and transformation. After high school, Josh enlisted in the U.S. Army as an infantry soldier. In 2004, he deployed to Iraq, where he served as an automatic rifleman for 13 months. Upon returning to Ft. Hood, TX in 2005, he became a squad leader. However, in 2006, a life-changing motorcycle accident altered his life. A teenager ran a stop sign and struck Josh while he was on his way to guard duty. Josh broke several bones, including his back, ankle, and femur, and lost his right arm above the elbow. After stabilization, he was flown to Walter Reed Army Medical Center for extensive treatment.

Josh Williams: From Recovery to Inspiration with Project Healing Waters

During his 10-month recovery at Walter Reed, Josh met Ed Nicholson, the founder of Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing (PHWFF), and John Bass. They introduced him to PHWFF, an organization that helps disabled veterans through fly fishing, casting, and fly tying as a form of therapy. At first, Josh resisted, but their persistence paid off. Soon, he joined them on the water. Catching his first trout on a fly rod sparked a newfound passion for fly fishing. This experience boosted his confidence and helped him rediscover activities he once thought impossible, including hunting, tying his shoes, and even changing diapers.

A New Chapter: Becoming a Fly Fishing Entrepreneur

After medically retiring from the Army as a Staff Sergeant, Josh returned to Roanoke, VA, and helped establish a PHWFF chapter at the Salem, VA hospital. There, veterans learned casting, fishing, and fly tying. At a fly-tying event, Josh tied his first fly, which led to his immediate love for the craft. He soon launched his own business, Dead Drift Flies, offering flies and guiding services. In 2011 and 2013, Orvis recognized his work and picked up two of his original fly patterns.

Achieving New Heights: Education and Family

Josh’s journey didn’t stop there. In December, he will graduate from Old Dominion University with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology. Over seven years, while balancing a full-time job at Aecom and his fly fishing business, Josh has achieved remarkable academic success. He shares his journey with his supportive wife, Lisa, and their two children: Emma Jo, 3, and Wyatt, 7 months. Josh’s resilience and faith inspire everyone around him.

Thank You, Josh Williams

Josh, your service, sacrifices, and contributions serve as a beacon of inspiration. Your journey reflects the true spirit of giving, as Acts 20:35 says: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Thank you for all you’ve done. You inspire us all.