My name is Charlie Hisserich. I am a firefighter for the City of San Gabriel in Southern California. I am also a volunteer for the group Ampsurf www.Ampsurf.org.

This is a group that was originally started to give disabled veterans an opportunity to learn to surf and to experience the ocean. The participants of this group have many "disablities" including amputees, spinal cord injuries, blindness, etc. This group is no longer limited to just disabled veterans. Not only do they have monthly training sessions, every year they hold what they refer to as "Operation Restoration" in Pismo Beach, California. This is a week long surfing clinic for disabled surfers. This year it will be held the week of September 10 to 16.

The purpose of my posting this information here is that the director of Ampsurf would like to extend an invitation to all disabled firefighters and police officers to participate in "Operation Restoration V" this year. If you are disabled or know any disabled firefighters or police officers who might want to participate, you can contact me here or at oso51b@aim.com

Other than travel, lodging and meals will be covered by Ampsurf for any disabled participants.

There is also a need for volunteers, both in water and on the sand. Now for the final pitch; Any contributions whether monetary or used/new equipment (surfboards, wetsuits, etc.) would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks for taking the time to check this out. If anyone has any questions they can contact Ampsurf through their web-site or me by e-mail. I'd love to see some participation from any of my brothers and sisters from the fire service world, disabled or otherwise. The healing power of the ocean is a wonderful thing.