The closing ceremony for the yearly American Heroes Saltwater Challenge had passed, but there was still one more award to hand out.

Sarah and Bob Nixon and their family were awarded the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Community Service award on Friday night. The family was honored for their work hosting the challenge. Now in its fifth year, the Nixons bring a group of recovering wounded service men and women and their families to the Beach Plum Inn and to fish the Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby.

The Martha’s Vineyard Sea Coast Defence Chapter of the DAR presented the award to Mr. and Mrs. Nixon Friday at the inn which they own as the sun was setting over Menemsha harbor.

“What you and your family have done fills my heart,” DAR member Donna Honig said. “What you’ve done for these boys and girls and what they’ve been able to do because of your help every year is remarkable.”

Susan Brown added: “We honor those who quietly and effectively help others, especially for those who help protect our country.”

The idea for the challenge was sparked by the Nixons’ son Jack when he was seven. Mrs. Nixon said she and her family were grateful for the award.

“I think our children have a clear understanding of how lucky we are to have this magical place and how good it makes them feel,” she said. “To be able to share it with other people so they can feel the healing powers of nature with a little saltwater therapy . . . it’s extraordinary.”