A heroes' welcome greeted wounded soldiers arriving Sunday for the sixth annual American Heroes Saltwater Challenge. Each year, wounded veterans visit the Island to fish the Martha's Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby and to enjoy fellowship and Vineyard-style relaxation.

The veterans are hosted by Bob and Sarah Nixon, owners of the Menemsha Inn, Beach Plum Inn and the Home Port Restaurant.

"We like to think of it as an experiment in extreme saltwater therapy," Mr. Nixon told the Gazette last year.

At the Martha's Vineyard Airport Sunday, children and other well-wishers gathered to welcome the visitors.