
Peter Graceffa, Outreach Director
Our Programs for veterans include sailing and rowing. We are proud to offer veterans the opportunity to continue their journey of service, camaraderie, and personal growth through our maritime programs.
For over two decades, Duxbury Bay Maritime School (DBMS) has been committed to making sailing and maritime activities accessible to all, including veterans. In 2008, we launched our first Maritime Program for Veterans, focusing on sailing. Since then, dozens of veteransāboth able-bodied and disabledāhave participated, enjoying the bay through sailing, motor boating, and relaxation on our campus.
Former Veterans Program Director Mark Engelsman, a Fellow of The Mission Continues, played a pivotal role in expanding our veterans’ programs. A U.S. Army veteran with over 30 years of service, including two deployments to Iraq, Mark dedicated more than 550 volunteer hours to growing our Accessail Program, ensuring its success for veterans.
Thanks to ongoing support, our veterans’ programming has expanded beyond sailing to include rowing. What began with a small group of new rowers has evolved into a dedicated, year-round team, where veterans build skills, camaraderie, and resilience on the water.
At DBMS, we are proud to provide veterans with opportunities to continue their journey of service, connection, and personal growth through our maritime programs.