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Ocoee outfitters say thanks to active military, veterans on July 4

To thank active military and veterans for their service, free whitewater rafting trips on the Ocoee River are offered to them on July 4 as part of Raft 4 Freedom. (Staff File Photo by Erin O. Smith)
To thank active military and veterans for their service, free whitewater rafting trips on the Ocoee River are offered to them on July 4 as part of Raft 4 Freedom. (Staff File Photo by Erin O. Smith) To thank active military and veterans for their service, free whitewater rafting trips on the Ocoee River are offered to them on July 4 as part of Raft 4 Freedom. (Staff File Photo by Erin O. Smith)

By Staff Report 2 min read

Hiwassee/Ocoee State Park and Ocoee River outfitters are partnering to make this Independence Day in Polk County, Tennessee, one to remember. As a way of showing appreciation to veterans, all Ocoee River outfitters are offering free whitewater rafting trips to any veteran or active-duty soldier on Wednesday, July 4, to celebrate Raft 4 Freedom in Ocoee, Tennessee.

A rare Wednesday water release on the Ocoee was secured by outfitters for this occasion.

“Veterans, come raft the Ocoee and let the outfitters, Tennessee State Parks and Polk County thank you for your sacrifice in person,” says Angelo Giansante, Hiwassee/Ocoee State Park manager.

In addition to free rafting trips, other specials/discounts offered by local businesses and tourism partners include:

-Gager Physical Therapy offers a free, one-month gym membership and/or a free physical therapy consultation for back/neck/shoulder/knee pain during the month of July.