Hawkins Makes Marine's Day

HOUSTON - Free agent reliever LaTroy Hawkins, who played the last year and a half with the Houston Astros, found a very special way to give back to his country and at the same time raise money for a worthy cause.

He was in San Antonio Thursday and surprised a retired member of the United States Marine Corps with a fishing trip to Del Rio, Tex. with Hawkins and some of the best fishermen in the world.

Brian McPherson, from Bertram, Texas, was injured in Iraq in 2004 and spent time at the military rehabilitation hospital in San Antonio.

Hawkins is holding his annual charity fishing tournament in Del Rio this weekend and McPherson is his special guest.

"He knew he was going fishing, but he didn't know who he was fishing with," Hawkins said in an interview with FOX 26 Sports. "We walked up to his door and he was pretty blown away, pretty blown away actually."

Hawkins is thrilled to have made McPherson's day.

"It means a lot because we can't even fathom what they've gone through or what they're going through," Hawkins said. "It's the least that I can do to repay them for all that they've done.

"They put their life on the line so I can enjoy the life and the freedom that I (have) in the United States. It's the least that I can do."

During his 15 years in the Major Leagues Hawkins has taken part in many charity functions. He considers this one of the best.

"This is at the top," Hawkins said. "Just to see his face and hear his story on the flight over.

"He was telling us how everything went down over there. His story touches your heart because it is very, very tragic and he was one of the lucky ones.

"It is special because I can put a smile on his face."

Hawkins' function is called "Hawks Big League Bass Classic."

Proceeds from the event benefit Lifeline Youth and Family Services. The non-profit entity works with victims of abuse and neglect.

They can be reached at www.lifelineyouth.org.

Hawkins has played 15 years in the Big Leagues. The Astros would like to re-sign him and Hawkins would like to return to Houston if the two sides can get together on a new contract.