(April 2, 2025) Peoria, AZ— A little Arizona rain didn’t stop Operation Wake Surf from giving local military personnel and first responders a well-deserved day on the water. In partnership with Centurion Boats, Operation Wake Surf successfully kicked off its first Salute to Service event of the season.
More than a dozen heroes—representing the military, police, and fire departments—arrived at Lake Pleasant in Peoria, AZ, for a day of camaraderie, surfing, and healing. Team Centurion athletes Turner Gebers and Tyler Stewart were on hand to coach and encourage the heroes.
“This morning, we came out and had a nice breakfast with people from the military, police, and fire services. We got to talk, share stories, and connect,” said Eirin Moore, a firefighter with the Peoria Fire Department. “After that, we headed out to the boats. I haven’t been on the water in 15 years, but the instruction was awesome. What a great day.”
Hosting Salute to Service events before each Centurion World Series of Wake Surfing competition and honoring those who serve our country and communities is one of our favorite ways to Wake Waves alongside local dealers like Century Marine and nonprofit organizations like Operation Wake Surf.
“We battled Mother Nature, but we got all the heroes up and riding! Everybody was smiling, and I loved hearing all their stories. It really puts things into perspective, and I’m stoked I got the opportunity to pay it forward,” shared Tyler Stewart, Team Centurion Athlete.
Since 2012, Operation Wake Surf has provided unforgettable experiences for first responders and military personnel. Its mission is to create unique, healing moments for those who keep our communities and country safe.
“It’s been a real honor and privilege to come out here with these guys and learn how to wake surf,” said Darin Fox of the Peoria Fire Department. “Great teachers, great guys—this was just an incredible experience.”
About Operation Wake Surf: Operation Wake Surf blends the healing power of water, camaraderie and mentorship via our compassionate coaches by sharing our passion for wake surfing with first responders and military personnel. This gives our participants an amazing experience on the water while instilling community, confidence, camaraderie and the respect they deserve. Our mission is to provide an unforgettable and unique experience to the first responders and military personnel who keep our communities and country safe.
About Centurion Boats: Creating the World’s best waves, wakes and ride since 1976, Centurion is a towed water sports boat manufacturer built on innovation and commitment to excellence. As a Correct Craft Company, we are charged with “Making Lives Better”. We embody this phrase with the boats we build along with the lives we live on and off the water. Centurion Boats is the perfect ride every time. To learn more about Centurion Boats, visit http://www.centurionboats.com.
About Correct Craft: Celebrating 100 years of excellence in the marine industry, Correct Craft is a Florida-based company with global operations. Focused on “Making Life Better,” the Correct Craft family includes Nautique, Centurion, Supreme, Bass Cat, Yar-Craft, SeaArk, Parker, and Ingenity boat companies, Pleasurecraft Engine Group, Indmar Marine Engines, Velvet Drive Transmissions, Mach Connections, Merritt Precision, Osmosis, Watershed Innovation, and Aktion Parks. For more information, please visit www.correctcraft.com.