Energy Company Exec Honors SOF Personnel While Training for Florida Ultimate Challenge

As a Navy Reserve captain and graduate of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Bill Whale has three decades of military experience under his belt.

Currently vice president of electric and gas delivery for TECO Energy, the parent company of Tampa Electric and People's Gas, Bill decided he wanted to do something to support special operations personnel and their families. So he signed up to participate in the 2012 Ultimate Florida Challenge, a WaterTribe event which begins in March.

"I've always struggled with the question 'How am I giving back to those that sacrificed for my freedom?' " he says.

"Prior to my retirement, my answer was that I serve to ensure that the relatives of those that paid the ultimate price will have the freedoms that I have enjoyed. Now that I am retired, I am helping raise funds for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation."

The Ultimate Florida Challenge is an expedition-style adventure race for kayaks, canoes, and small sailboats. The race circumnavigates Florida and covers roughly 1200 miles including a 40-mile portage connecting the St. Marys River to the Suwannee River.

Okay, but what is WaterTribe?

"The purpose of WaterTribe is to encourage the development of boats, equipment, skills, and human athletic performance for safe and efficient coastal cruising using minimal impact human and wind powered watercraft based on kayaks, canoes, and small sailboats.”

Bill is already preparing - and recognizing a fallen special operator during each training mission. You can learn more about Bill and the Ultimate Florida Challenge, and see who he is honoring, by reading his blog. You can make a donation here.