MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – A local group aims to give soldiers a chance to build friendships.

And what better way than a day on the lake.

Simply Outdoor Experiences hosted a group of veterans on Lake Mille Lacs Friday for a day of fishing.

“These guys have served our country and done things I can’t imagine,” said Woody Sankey of Simply Outdoor Experiences. “It’s the right thing to do — it’s my way to give back.”

The nonprofit group that sponsors this fishing trip does it because there have been cuts to programs for veterans. The VA in St. Cloud did help out with transportation and food costs.