It will be a new experience for Mary and Dave Patch on New Year’s Day. It will be their first participation in Boothbay Region YMCA’s Penguin Plunge which raises money for a local second grade swimming program. So what prompted the couple to take a dip into Murray Hill Road’s icy January waters? Well, it’s simple, the couple’s community involvement has been recognized by Penguin Plunge organizers as making a significant local contribution.

Dave Patch is a Vietnam War veteran who served 25 years in the U.S. Navy. He later spent 26 years working as a small business Navy contractor developing new technologies for shipboard applications. In retirement, he has worked supporting veterans and people with disabilities. He has held several leadership roles in organizations such as Mid-coast Veterans Council, American Legion Post No. 36, and various Maine American Legion committees, Military Officers Association of America, Maine Veteran Coordinating Committee and Honor Flight Maine. 

Mary Patch also dedicates her time to local causes. Dave Patch credits her with providing him with advice and support in his efforts to help veterans. “Supporting me is a full-time job in itself and her people skills and common sense approach provide timely guidance in helping me with our efforts helping veterans and their families.”

Mary Patch is also involved with Our Lady Queen of Peace church activities. She co-leads the Monday community hot lunch program “Warm Spaces.” On Dec. 11, last year’s Penguin Plunge community volunteers Ted and Betty Repa welcomed the Patches as the new representatives. “Every year, we honor people who make a major contribution to the community. And, with all that Dave and Mary do for our veterans, they are a very deserving selection,” said Penguin Plunge committee member and Boothbay Harbor patrolman Larry Brown. 

The Patches are excited about participating in their first Penguin Plunge. Mary Patch is willing to at least stick a toe into the ocean. “We are very honored because this is such a good cause,” she said. “We have grandkids and know how important it is for kids in learning how to swim.” But Dave Patch will take the full plunge to show his support for the second grade swim program and his courage as a veteran. “I’m going all the way in,” he said. “I’m a Vietnam veteran, and if I whimped out, and didn’t go under water, it would embarrass all my fellow vets.” 

This year’s welcoming ceremony also included two Y Dolphin swimmers who have participated in past plunges. Hannah Hills and Byran Hills are both members of the local Y’s swim team. Hannah Hills has taken the plunge five times and Byran has participated three times. 

The Y’s Penguin Plunge began in 2001 as an aquatics program fundraiser. Later, it became a fundraiser for a second grade swimming program for kids living in Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Southport and Edgecomb. Y officials are hoping to eventually expand the free swimming program to the Damariscotta region.