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NOTES FROM THE FIELD: JUNE/JULY 2019
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Enjoying great conversations around the campfire at the 2019 WWIA Guide School in Plankinton, SD.
Photo credit to WWIA Guide Derrick Oursler
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Notes From the Field: June/July 2019
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Welcome to the WWIA Summer Edition newsletter! In this issue, we will cover all of the exciting news and events from June and July. It's been an incredible summer so far with lots of exciting and memorable events for our Heroes. We were also proud to host our 3rd iteration of WWIA Guide School. In addition, our faithful WWIA family of supporters have gone above and beyond by hosting some incredible fundraisers and donating generous gifts throughout this season. As we turn the corner into the second half of the year, we take time to celebrate what an outstanding first half of 2019 it has been. We could not proudly serve our Purple Heart Heroes without the dedication and faithful support from so many of you. We sincerely thank you for helping us honor their service and sacrifice, connect them with their fellow Heroes and communities that care, and heal their hearts and minds.
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3rd Biennial WWIA Guide School
June 1-9 Plankinton, SD
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Congratulations John Keeney, Dan Berryman, Matt Phillips, Asa Barrett, Derrick Oursler, and Jordan Bondurant, the WWIA Guide School Class of 2019, for earning your official WWIA Guide School Certification! WWIA welcomed these six Heroes to Plankinton, SD for hands-on training, education, and instruction to help lead WWIA events in the field. This 3rd iteration of WWIA Guide School would not have been possible without the outstanding dedication and hard work of so many amazing individuals within our WWIA family! Our highest appreciation and thanks to the Dept. of Veterans Affairs Adaptive Sports Program for supporting and funding this important mission. Sincere thanks to Brad and Julie Boisen for hosting this event at the beautiful Grand Ciel Lodge. Thank you for your incredible hospitality and care! We would also like to recognize and express our gratitude to our phenomenal instructors: Corrina Hart, John & Tami Rogers of Maine's Outdoor Learning Center, Dr. Sonja Stilp of RISE, Dr. Keith Tidball, Dixon Gunther, Jake Whipkey, Tim Spence, Jeremy Smith, John Hopple, Justin Bartling, Craig Parkhurst, and Corey Tart. Additional thanks to Timberland for generously outfitting our Guides with PRO insulated jackets. Thank you to everyone for their tremendous contributions, time, and expertise in making this 2019 Guide School a HUGE success. Please join us in proudly welcoming and congratulating our six new WWIA Guides!
"I was honored to have been selected to attend Guide School. It was an experience and memory I will always cherish. I grew as a leader, outdoorsmen, man, and brother to our Purple Heart Heroes WWIA serves. I am excited to get out and lead more events with the knowledge given to me by so many. The instructors were obviously well thought out and handpicked. I have never been around so many humble, dedicated and patriotic people in my life. This experience has taught me so much that I can use every day in life, not just in the woods or on the stream. Grand Ciel Lodge was the perfect location for Guide School. The views are breathe taking! But the Boisen’s really showed us what it means to be loved. I flew home knowing I had family in South Dakota. I have always said that you can never replace the brotherhood forged in combat. But for me, my hunting buddies sitting around a campfire telling stories was second place. So, when you take Warriors that have walked in the same bloody boots as you have and put them by the campfire after a hard day of hunting you hit gold every time. My brothers that went on this adventure with me are just that, brothers for a lifetime. Each one of them brought a skill set to the table that I learned from and I will be forever grateful. There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t appreciate this amazing opportunity to be back on a team again leading by example. John, know that I will always have your vision of this amazing organization at my forefront as I’m leading events all over this country. To everyone that had a hand in Guide School this year a thank you is just not enough. I’ll be smiling about this for the rest of my life."
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6th Annual Alaska Halibut Fishing
June 13-19 Seward, AK
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Host John Moline and the amazing community of Seward, Alaska welcomed six of our Purple Heart Heroes for a memorable adventure in the Last Frontier! Our Heroes were blessed with five days of beautiful weather, taking in scenic vistas, observing native wildlife, learning about the history around them, and of course world-class fishing. There were plenty of amazing catches during their time on the water with our Heroes reaching their daily limit of fish, including an outstanding 78-pound catch by Hero Rick. Following tradition, our Heroes enjoyed visiting the Aialik Glacier as they watched huge pieces of ice fall into the bay in one of the most active years on record. Our Warriors were honored, thanked, and appreciated everywhere they went by the patriotic people of Seward. The food, sights, camaraderie, and friendships made during this trip will be cherished for many years to come. Our sincere thanks to the American Legion Post 5, the Sons of the American Legion, and the American Legion Auxilliary for their faithful support. Additional appreciation and gratitude to Elle Zernia, from Captain Jack’s Seafood Locker, for packaging, freezing and boxing the Heroes' catches to take home. Special thanks to John Moline ( Current Affair Charters, Kenai Fjords Bed and Breakfast) and friends for another fantastic event, and also to WWIA Guide Joe Liddell for his support and assistance throughout this memorable excursion. "This was the first time in Alaska for me. I had a great time meeting and making new friends. John, Joe, and Becky all welcomed us and made us feel like we belonged here and were family. They were just awesome! The fishing we did was not just about fishing, we also received a little history lesson about the area, saw some of the native wildlife and stood by a glacier watching chunks fall off of it. There really are no words to say about this whole experience except why haven’t I tried to get up to this beautiful state sooner."
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7th Annual Alabama Inshore/Offshore Fishing
June 20-23 Dauphin Island, AL
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Four of our Heroes descended upon Dauphin Island, Alabama to kick off the 7th Annual AL Inshore/Offshore Fishing Event. Our Heroes thoroughly enjoyed their time on the water, which provided lots of great conversation, laughs, and no shortage of outstanding catches. When they returned in the evenings there were opportunities to play games, share stories and bond with their brothers. The hospitality and delicious home-cooked meals throughout this event helped to make this trip the perfect getaway for some much-needed healing and camaraderie amongst our Warriors. High praise and appreciation to Hosts Ritchie Russell, Ira Everett, and their outstanding community of friends and supporters for putting on another top-notch event for our Purple Heart Heroes! We would also like to express our gratitude to WWIA Guide Mark Broda for his attention and care throughout this event.
"At this juncture of my life as an aging warrior. I’ve started to feel loneliness and longing for those times in my life where I felt the closeness of my teammates and troops to share that special bond. This trip, as short as it was rekindled that Esprit de Corps I’ve been missing for so long. With not only my fellow wounded Warriors but also the civilians who so graciously hosted us for the fishing event. They welcomed us into their home and made us part of their family. It's nice to know there are still great Americans who care about their returning Warriors. WWIA is a fantastic organization and has made the adventure that much more special. Best to all and thank you for what you did!"
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3rd Annual Wisconsin Summer Musky Fishing
July 11-13 Mosinee, WI
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Three of our Heroes recently gathered in Mosinee, Wisconsin for the 3rd Annual WI Summer Musky event. Wisconsin is home to some of the best musky fishing in the world, and this event served as a testament to that fact. Our Heroes hauled in some outstanding musky and pike, enjoying the tremendous challenge and fight these fish are known for exhibiting. WWIA Guide Jon French caught what many refer to as the "fish of 10,000 casts" as he landed what may be the largest Musky of any WWIA event to date, measuring an astounding 44 1/2 inches. When they weren't on the water, our Heroes enjoyed some restful time away from the hustle of everyday life, getting to know their Hosts and even taking a tour of fellow WWIA Host Tony Kopchinski's wood-turning shop; learning first-hand the craftsmanship and skill required for this type of art. As exceptional as the fishing was on this trip, the camaraderie and bonds formed between Heroes was unquestionably the highlight. Our sincere gratitude and appreciation to Todd and Dawn Bohm for proudly hosting our Heroes and for their faithful support and dedication to WWIA. Special thanks to Dave Brula and Stoney Creek Hotel for their continued generosity in providing top-notch accommodations for our Heroes throughout the years. We would also like to recognize and thank all of the volunteers and supporters who made this event possible. High praise goes out to WWIA Guide Jon French for his attention and assistance throughout the event. "This is my first-time Musky fishing. I haven’t caught one yet, but we are going out to try again. Our Hosts Todd and Dawn Bohm treated us to a wonderful lunch at their home. Lunch was delicious and we had a good time. I learned a lot about fishing for Musky from my two boat captains, Dave and Jeff. I want to thank them for their time working with me. Our WWIA Guide, Jon French has been great, he has been with us all along. Helping us get our fishing licenses and getting us to our rooms. I like visiting with a post 9/11 vet like Jon who has a good attitude and is willing to help others. WWIA is a great organization helping veterans get out into the woods and rivers. I would like to thank all the people who helped to put this fishing trip on. Thank you!"
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Inaugural WWIA 5k
June 29 Tampa, FL
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We were blessed with some picture-perfect weather at the Inaugural WWIA 5k Race at Al Lopez Park in Tampa, FL. People from the local community cheerfully came out to socialize, walk, run, and stroll while supporting our Purple Heart Heroes. Check out our news coverage on News Channel 10, incredible photography by Kari Kelber, and the jaw-dropping times some of these racers finished in. Congratulations to our winners and special thanks to all of our phenomenal sponsors, amazing volunteers, inspiring DJ's, and all the race participants for making this a truly memorable and special event!
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Waterloo American Legion Riders Bob Plate Memorial Ride
June 8 Waterloo, NY
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Our highest gratitude and thanks to the Waterloo American Legion Riders, the family of Bob Plate, and to everyone who participated in the Bob Plate Memorial Ride for their generous contribution to WWIA. This donation will go toward the local 6th Annual Kuneytown FLX Ducks and Bucks event in November. Thank you for your incredible patriotism and support of WWIA and our Purple Heart Heroes!
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Eagle River Speedway 50/50 Raffle
July 17 Eagle River, WI
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The Eagle River Speedway recently held a 50/50 Raffle and generously donated $516 from the monies raised to help support the local 5th Annual Eagle River Muskie Chal-Lunge in September. Congratulations to the big winner of the 50/50 raffle, Amber from Tomahawk! Appreciation and thanks to Patti and her crew at the Eagle River Speedway, to all the fans who bought raffle tickets, and to Jone and Nicole for selling tickets to those in attendance. What a great night for our Warriors!
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HotSpring Spas of Music City Memorial Day Fundraiser
May 27 Lebanon, TN
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We would like to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to HotSpring Spas of Music City for their recent donation of $2,400 to WWIA. For the last 4 years, HotSpring Spas has held a special 'Memorial Day' sale the last half of May and generously contributed $100 from every spa sold during that time frame to support WWIA and our Heroes! Thank you HotSpring Spas of Music City and owner Kevin Croteau for your thoughtfulness and faithful support!
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3rd Annual Gary Galliford Memorial Open Pool Tournament
Superior, WI
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Please join us in recognizing and thanking the Top Hat Tavern, owners Jeff and Wendy Schelin, all the staff, sponsors, the field of 96 participants, friends, and spectators who made the 3rd Annual Gary Galliford Memorial Open Pool Tournament such a tremendous success. Top Hat Tavern graciously donated $2,146 from the proceeds of the tournament to WWIA in honor of Gary Galliford. These funds will go toward the local 7th Annual Bayfield Cast & Blast event that will take place in October. Thank you, Top Hat Tavern and the incredibly patriotic community of Superior, WI for your dedication and support of WWIA and our Purple Heart Heroes!
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It is our great privilege to introduce you to this month's Spotlight featured guest, Mr. Andy Wilson. Andy currently hosts two WWIA events during the year, the Great Creek Turkey Hunt during the spring season, and the Great Creek Deer Hunt during the winter season. He is also a member of the Great Creek Hunt Club which proudly co-sponsors and is actively involved in the coordination and care of these annual events. Andy graciously took time to answer some of our questions regarding his experience with WWIA. We hope you will enjoy getting to know Andy and we sincerely thank him for his dedication and support of WWIA and our Heroes.
Andy, can you please give us a brief introduction and tell us a little about yourself?
I am a resident of Chesterfield Virginia, where I live with my wife Abigail and two daughters Kynleigh,4 and Annistyn,1. I started hunting with Great Creek Hunt Club with my grandfather when I was 10 years old. Since the first time I ever hunted, I was instantly hooked, and it has grown into a lifelong passion of mine. While I enjoy deer hunting, turkey hunting is by far my favorite. I currently work for Cintas First Aid and Safety as an Account Executive.
How did you first get involved with WWIA?
I first got involved with the WWIA at an event near Roanoke Rapids NC, when I was asked to guide a Hero on that hunt. It was at that time that I met Tim Spence and John McDaniel. Subsequently, Tim was the Associate that attended the first hunt that we hosted.
What has been the biggest benefit for you since becoming involved with WWIA?
The biggest benefit I've experienced has been the lifelong friends we have made while instilling a passion for the great outdoors with the Heroes.
Why do you choose to Host a WWIA event?
I approached the members of Great Creek Hunt Club, in which I serve as Vice President about hosting a hunt. The idea was eagerly welcomed by all of our members of the Club. We wanted to host the event to give back to the community and specifically military veterans by providing an outlet for them to rejuvenate and reconnect.
What have been some of the positive affects you have seen in the lives of Heroes that have attended your events?
From my perspective, some of the positive effects for the Heroes that attend our events are their ability to enjoy a peaceful, stress-free environment in spite of some of the adversities they have faced when returning from combat. Additionally, the entire event is covered 100% financially for them to ensure there are no additional concerns.
What would you say to others who are considering getting involved with WWIA either as a Host or in any other capacity?
I would encourage anyone who has an interest in WWIA to host or assist in any way possible. It is not only a great way to give back to those who have sacrificed so much, but it is also incredibly rewarding for those who contribute.
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We would like to express our sincere appreciation and gratitude to the following supporters for their gracious contributions and dedication to WWIA and our Heroes. THANK YOU!
Donations:
HotSpring Spas of Music City $2,400
Joseph Smith $1,743.95 (via CARS donation)
Joseph Vander Zanden $1,000
Nelson Holt $1,000
Hi-Tech Health Inc. $900
Dawn Roberto $888.91 (via CARS donation)
Bishop's Events LLC $735
Franciscan Alliance $600
Donations toward 5th Annual Eagle River
Muskie Chal-Lunge
Headwaters Chapter of Muskies Inc. $800
Immaculate Conception Church $770
C.R. Meyer $700
Eagle River Speedway 50/50 Raffle $516
Hessenjaeger Wirehairs LLC $500
Donations toward 13th Annual Camp Hackett Event
Hides for Heroes $1,104
Corner Connection Bar, Cabin, & Campground
Meat Raffle $566
Donation toward 6th Annual Western PA Deer Event
Janice Garlock $5,000
Donation toward Inaugural Bourassa Hunt
Whitetails Unlimited Inc. $2,000
Donations toward 7th Annual Bayfield Cast & Blast
Top Hat Tavern $2,146
Whitetails Unlimited Inc. $2,000
Donation toward Inaugural New Hampshire Black Bear and Bass Combo
New Hampshire Veterans' Association $1,500
Donations toward 10th Annual NY Upland Bird
& Couples Retreat
Inland Waters Trap League $1,427
Twilight on the Erie RV Resort LLC $1,250
NY Deep LLC Webster Unit (UNO Pizzeria & Grill) $510.05
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CFC Season is Almost Here!
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The Combined Federal Campaign season is almost here. The greatest way for us to share our mission and the life-changing impacts we are making is by telling our story to others. We are reaching out to our amazing WWIA family/supporters to see if you would consider representing WWIA at a CFC event in your local geographic area. If you would be interested in attending and representing on our behalf, please email WWIA Chief of Staff Gerard Dempster at gerard@wwiaf.org. We appreciate your support in advance and for all you do to help us spread the message and mission of WWIA. We look forward to hearing from you.
THANK YOU!
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