On April 8, the inaugural Strength Through Legacy Arm Wrestling Tournament is set to take place at Charlie Mike’s. Located at 195 Starpoint Dr., Charlie Mike’s is a local watering hole with a heart for the military community. The tournament commemorates Sgt. 1st Class Bradley S. Bohle, who was killed in action in 2009. Proceeds benefit the Green
Beret Foundation. 

Bohle’s widow, Elizabeth, is excited to partner with Dog Tag Brewing Foundation and the Steel Mags to establish what she hopes will become an annual event. “To my knowledge, this is the first time an arm wrestling tournament has been in Fayetteville, and it is a first for the Green Beret Foundation,” said Elizabeth. “It’s open to anyone who wants to enter. First time or experienced – doesn’t matter. Come out, see a great sport, and have a great time. Come experience some hard-hitting, in-your-face, over the top action and support a great cause.”

An arm wrestling tournament seemed like the perfect way to honor her husband because it is an event that seeks to encompass the competitive spirit of Green Berets and Steel Mags while encouraging the support of the community in a fun and friendly environment.

“People can expect to show up to arm wrestle and have a good time,” she said. “We would love to have max participation from the surrounding community and have upwards of 90 arm wrestlers.”

There is also a silent auction with several unique items donated from within the veteran community. Paraclete donated a buddy plan pass, and Spartan Blades donated a knife. There are several other donors as well. There will also be a raffle for a custom Punisher Adirondack chair. Charlie Mike’s and Thai Pepper will both serve food and are open for business during the event. 

There are prizes for first, second and third place finishers in all categories. There are men’s and women’s categories for left and right arms as well as different
weight classes.

The Green Beret Foundation holds a special place in Elizabeth’s heart because it was this organization that reached out to her after her husband was killed. “The Green Beret Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that helps Green Berets and their families carry on with the mission. There are many facets to the organization including casualty support, extended support, transition support and family support which is how I became involved with the foundation,” said Elizabeth. “Jen Paquette, executive director of the foundation, reached out to me several years ago after Brad was killed in action. Through the foundation, Jenny was instrumental in helping me start the healing process.”

Registration and weigh-ins start at 4:30 p.m. and the tournament begins at 6 p.m. For more information, email braggsmags@greenberetfoundation.org.