Our Leadership

Larry Kendzior
Executive Director 

A former U.S. Army officer and currently a business consultant and CPA, Larry founded Fish With A Hero in 2013 after seeing how fly fishing helped wounded vets with PTSD reconnect and open up. Today he leads strategy and operations, including coordinating trips with Southwest Florida captains. Alongside Mark Gibson and Ronnie Friedl, he’s helped the organization serve 3,700+ veterans through 22,000+ hours on the water, in classes, and at workshops, all driven by one mission: giving those who served purpose, fellowship, and a reason to stay connected!

Ronnie Friedl
Vice President, Southwest Florida Operations 

Formerly a Lake Erie walleye charter captain, Ronnie joined Fish With A Hero in 2016. Now based in Cape Coral, he leads twice-monthly workshops teaching vets fishing skills, believing FWAH is about transformation, not just recreation. For Ronnie, success isn’t “fish in the cooler,” it’s the camaraderie, confidence, and memories veterans take home. His goal: that every hero leaves the water with a great memory and the feeling that it is good to be alive!

Mark Gibson
Vice President, Florida Keys Operations 

A wounded Navy veteran and Islamorada charter captain, Mark became Fish With A Hero’s second leader after volunteering to guide the group’s first trips in the Florida Keys. Known for putting Heroes on nonstop fishing action, he brings firsthand understanding of service and recovery to every trip. On and off the water, Mark helps FWAH deliver more than a day of fishing. He creates space for laughter, connection, and confidence. His mission is simple: make sure every veteran steps off the boat feeling seen, supported, and ready for what’s next!