Every summer on the quiet waters of Lake Francis Case, a group of veterans, volunteers, and outdoor enthusiasts gather for something far greater than a fishing trip. For three days in Pickstown, stories are shared, laughter echoes across the lake, and bonds forged through military service are strengthened once again through nature, camaraderie, and compassion.

Among the organizations helping make this experience possible is Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup (rotorooter.com/lincoln), alongside several Omaha-area businesses proud to support Out Beside You (OBY) Veterans Organization — a nonprofit dedicated to helping veterans reconnect, heal, and transition back into civilian life.

For the past six years, master plumber Kurt Doyle has donated far more than his professional expertise. Each year, he captains his boat during OBY’s annual fishing outing, guiding veterans across the waters of Lake Francis Case while sharing his passion for fishing and the outdoors.

Kurt is joined by eight other captains and more than ten volunteers who generously donate their time, cabins, boats, and resources to host approximately 20 veterans during the retreat. Together, they create an environment where military members from different generations can relax, reflect, and reconnect with others who understand the unique challenges of life after service.

A Mission Built on Brotherhood

Founded in 2017 by Dustin Davis, Out Beside You was born from personal experience. After serving ten years as a Reconnaissance Team Leader in the United States Marine Corps and medically retiring, Davis recognized how difficult the transition to civilian life could be for combat veterans and their families.

Many veterans return home carrying invisible wounds alongside physical injuries — experiences that are often difficult to explain to those outside the military community. Davis discovered that some of the most meaningful healing came not in clinical settings, but outdoors, surrounded by fellow veterans who understood those struggles firsthand.

That realization became the foundation of OBY’s mission: creating guided outdoor experiences through fishing, hunting, and agriculture that allow veterans to reconnect with nature, with one another, and with themselves.
The organization now serves active-duty military members, transitioning service members, veterans, retirees, and their families through events designed to foster encouragement, conversation, and belonging.

More Than a Fishing Trip

While the annual South Dakota outing centers around fishing, participants say the true impact happens between casts.
Conversations shared in boats and cabins often become moments of understanding and healing. Veterans swap stories about service, family, hardship, and resilience while taking in the scenic beauty of South Dakota’s rolling hills and open water.

For many attendees, the retreat offers something rare: the feeling of being understood without needing to explain.

Community support plays a vital role in making these experiences possible. Local businesses, volunteers, and donors continue to step forward year after year, helping ensure veterans have opportunities to build meaningful connections and lasting memories.

In a world that often moves too quickly, the waters of Lake Francis Case offer something simple but powerful — a place where veterans can breathe deeply, share openly, and know they are never alone.

To learn more about Out Beside You or to make a donation contact: Dustin Davis at dustind@nebbiz.org.