|
|
|
NOTES FROM THE FIELD: Summer 2020
|
|
 |
|
A whale breaking majestically from the waters at the 7th Annual Alaska Halibut Fishing Event.
Photo courtesy of WWIA Guide Derrick Oursler.
|
|
|
Notes From the Field: Summer 2020
|
|
|
Welcome to the WWIA Summer Edition newsletter. We hope that this finds you and your loved ones healthy and well. 2020 has been a difficult and unprecedented year for our country and the world-at-large. We have all had to pivot and adjust both personally and professionally. For a Foundation that has our Heroes travel to different locations throughout North America, the travel restrictions and quarantine requirements made things particularly challenging. Although this summer was relatively quiet event-wise, we were able to host Heroes on outstanding events in Alaska and Ohio, and are thrilled to share those highlights with you. As things begin to normalize and open up again, we are looking forward to an exciting fall, full of exceptional world-class outdoor sporting activities for our combat-wounded veterans. We want to thank all of you for your tremendous generosity and patriotism over these past months. Your encouragement, understanding, and continued support have meant the world to us. Now more than ever we are emboldened in our mission to serve our Purple Heart Heroes and bring honor, connection, and healing to their lives. Please help us spread our message of hope and healing by sharing this newsletter with your friends and family.
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2020 WWIA Sweepstakes
September 11 - November 11, 2020
|
|
 |
|
The WWIA Sweepstakes have officially begun today, September 11, 2020! It is our honor to invite you to participate in the 2nd Annual WWIA Sweepstakes. You could win one of three cash prizes while helping provide world-class outdoor sporting adventures across the United States to Purple Heart veterans, all at no cost to them. ⠀
Last year patriots like you helped raise over $40,000 to support our mission. With your help, this year we can reach our goal of $100,000! Tickets are available online at www.wwiaf.org/tickets. Please encourage your friends, family and network to purchase tickets toward the $5,000 prize. Help raise awareness by sharing your support on social media. Thank you for your support and GOOD LUCK!⠀
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Ends 11/11/20. Open to legal residents of 50 US & DC who are 21 or older. Subject to full Official Rules (http://wwiaf.org/rules). Void where prohibited by law. Contributions or gifts made or paid to Wounded Warriors in Action Foundation are not refundable or transferable. Contributions or gifts made as part of this sweepstakes are not deductible as charitable contributions for Federal income tax purposes.
|
|
|
|
|
|
7th Annual Alaska Halibut Fishing
June 19-24 Seward, AK
|
|
 |
|
Six of our Purple Heart Heroes traveled to scenic Seward, Alaska for a memorable time at the 7th Annual AK Halibut Fishing Event. This trip truly checked all the boxes, as our Heroes marveled at scenic vistas, observed native wildlife, learned about the surrounding history, indulged in world-class fishing, and enjoyed some well-deserved relaxation and camaraderie in the last great wilderness. There were plenty of amazing and challenging catches during their time on the water with our Heroes reaching their daily limit of fish. A variety of catches were made, including gray cod, yellow-eye rockfish, black rockfish, shark, halibut, and more. Some other highlights of the trip included visiting the Aialik Glacier, spending time at the Kenjai Fjords National Park, and watching orca and humpback whales up close. Our Warriors were honored, thanked, and appreciated everywhere they went. They were treated to a wonderful dinner at the American Legion Post 5 and enjoyed meeting the welcoming and patriotic people of Seward. The food, sights, camaraderie, fishing, 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 outstanding 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 Host John Moline (Current Affair Charters, Kenai Fjords Bed and Breakfast), Co-Host and WWIA Guide Joe Liddell (Hooked Charters) and friends for giving our Heroes a once-in-a-lifetime excursion. Special appreciation and thanks to WWIA Guide Derrick Oursler for his contributions and care throughout the event.
"What a trip! I have not had so much fun and laughed so hard for a week straight in a very long time. John, Joe, and Janette have been wonderful Hosts, and I am extremely grateful for their hospitality. Every single day topped the day before. Every time I thought this trip could not get any better, it did, From the amazing fishing to the whales, orcas, sea lions, porpoise, bald eagles, mountain goats, islands and bays; this place is amazing. Thank you to all that made it happen."
|
|
|
|
9th Annual Lake Erie Trophy Walleye Fishing
July 31- August 3 Ashtabula, OH
|
|
 |
|
The 9th Annual Lake Erie Trophy Walleye Fishing event welcomed nine of our Heroes to Ashtabula, Ohio to experience four days of relaxation, camaraderie, and outstanding fishing. Our Warriors arrived to a delicious fish fry on their first evening and following dinner were introduced to their prospective fishing captains and boats in anticipation of their upcoming days on the water. They enjoyed some time around the campfire getting to know one another and shared plenty of stories and laughter before retiring for the evening. The next morning our Heroes hit the water early and within two hours of dropping their lines had already reached their limit on large walleye! They proceeded to clean, fillet, and freeze their catches, then had a little rest and relaxation before enjoying a tour of Ashtabula in their honor, courtesy of the American Legion Riders and the local police. Later that evening, there was a phenomenal steak fry dinner, proudly hosted by the American Legion Dewey Howlett Post 103 with local residents, volunteers, boat captains, crews, and guides in attendance who expressed their gratitude and appreciation for our Heroes service and sacrifice. The following day brought high winds, waves, and water craft advisories, but our Heroes took it in stride and instead had an awesome time at the Kister Campground and Marina enjoying a BBQ cookout and a corn hole tournament. This was a remarkable event that impacted our Heroes. Each of them returned home with a cooler full of walleye, but more importantly with new friendships and treasured memories of their time in Ohio. Our gratitude and appreciation to Hosts Bill and Diane Miller, Co-Host Larry Fielder, Dave Conat, the incredible Team Erie, and to all the tremendous volunteers, supporters, and local community for another spectacular event. The care and honor given toward our Heroes each year at this event is simply superb. Special recognition and thanks to WWIA Guide Jon French for his tremendous support and coordination throughout this event. "Wow! 2020 has been a horrible year for most Americans. I am a combat-wounded amputee, I know of roughly 12 veterans that have committed suicide since COVID-19 started to impact our lives. I write that to say that what you all do matters! This weekend means so much to the nine veterans that attended this year. This year more than any other we all truly needed this. Your generosity and hard work matter more than ever. Veterans need this, the camaraderie is indescribable. I love this town and this country. Thank you from the bottom of my heart."
|
|
|
|
7th Annual WWIA FLX Ducks & Bucks Golf Tournament
June 27 Seneca Falls, NY
|
|
 |
|
The 7th Annual Kuneytown FLX Ducks and Bucks Golf Tournament teed off on June 27th at the beautiful Seneca Falls Country Club. This annual event raised an impressive $1,400 toward the upcoming 7th Annual Kuneytown FLX Ducks and Bucks event. We truly appreciate the tremendous patriotism and support of the sponsors, donors, participants, and volunteers for another amazing time on the golf course while raising donations and awareness for our combat-wounded Heroes!
|
|
|
|
|
Help Support WWIA and our Heroes with Your CFC Pledge!
September 21, 2020 - January 15, 2021
|
|
 |
|
Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) season begins September 21st! CFC allows federal employees and retirees to make charitable contributions to a number of eligible charities they personally select by directing a portion of their income or annuitant payments to those non-profits. CFC is the world's largest and most successful annual workplace charity campaign and the pledges and contributions received help non-profits like WWIA continue the work we are doing to assist in the healing and restoration of our Heroes. As you look to make your CFC charity designations this season, we would appreciate you considering making a pledge to WWIA and making a direct difference in the lives of our Purple Heart Heroes. Click here to be taken to the CFC Donor Pledge Site once the campaign starts September 21st. We appreciate your support in advance and for all you do to help us spread the message and mission of WWIA. We thank you in advance for your consideration and for your faithful support as you partner with us.
|
|
|
|
|
Honoring Purple Heart Day
August 7
|
|
 |
|
WWIA proudly celebrated Purple Heart Day on August 7th. Purple Heart Day is officially recognized every August 7th and commemorates the creation of the oldest American military decoration for military merit and honors the brave men and women who have earned the Military Order of the Purple Heart. Established by General George Washington during the Revolutionary War, the badge was given as a distinction for meritorious action and was originally a heart made of purple cloth. This award was discontinued after the Revolutionary War until it was reintroduced in 1932 with support from Gen. Douglas MacArthur in association with Washington’s 200th birthday. The modern purple heart medal emerged and was to be awarded “to persons who, while serving in the Army of the United States, perform any singularly meritorious act of extraordinary fidelity or essential service.” Over the years, eligibility for the Purple Heart was extended to members of all branches of the U.S. military. There is a rich and important history behind the Purple Heart, and we encourage you to go here to learn more about it.
|
|
|
|
|
HotSpring Spas Memorial Day Fundraiser
May 25
|
|
 |
|
A heartfelt and huge THANK YOU to Hotspring Spas of Music City and HotSpring Spas of the the Upper Cumberland for their tremendous donation to WWIA! HotSpring Spas held its Month of May/Memorial Day Spa Sale and graciously raised an astounding $6,100 for WWIA and our Heroes. HotSpring Spas have been faithful supporters of the Foundation, having raised a stellar $16,500 over the past five years! Our sincere thanks to the amazing team at HotSpring Spas, to owners Dennis and Kevin Croteau, and to everyone who purchased a spa during the month of May.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Our WWIA events would not be possible without the incredible generosity and support of our amazing Hosts. It is our privilege to introduce you to Hosts, Dan and Susan Bevevino, who have been tremendous supporters of WWIA. The Bevevino's proudly host the Western PA Turkey and Fishing Event (5th year) in the spring and the Western PA Archery Deer Event (6th year) in the fall. Dan was gracious and willing to share some of his insights and experiences as WWIA Host. Thank you to Dan, Susan, and the entire Bevevino family for the selfless work you do in honor of our Purple Heart Heroes.
Dan, can you please give us a brief introduction and tell us a little about yourself and your family?
Susan and I are both natives of Western Pennsylvania, and hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities have been traditions in both of our families for multiple generations. We have three children, Frank, Anthony and Catherine, all of whom have participated in and contributed to the WWIA events that we have hosted. I have been employed by and involved with various health-care related companies for the last 30 plus years, and Susan is a nurse practitioner. Susan and I have retired from our full-time jobs which has allowed us to focus on our families and charitable endeavors, including hosting events and collaborating with WWIA.
How did you first get involved with WWIA?
For some time, we had been thinking about giving back to Wounded Warriors by hosting Heroes at our farm in Western Pennsylvania. We started doing research on various organizations that serve Wounded Warriors, and WWIA seemed to be a great match for what we wanted to do. When we reached out to WWIA, they were very supportive and encouraging of us and our efforts to host an event. WWIA has turned out to be a perfect match for us in sponsoring family-oriented events that focus on 3-4 Heroes and allow for small, intimate gatherings. It has truly been a blessing to be associated with WWIA.
You host both the Western PA Turkey and Fishing Event (5th year) in the spring and the Western PA Archery Deer Event (6th year) in the fall. Why have you chosen to Host these events over the past six years?
Hunting the forests and farms of Western Pennsylvania has always been a positive factor and an important activity in our families. Having the opportunity to share these positive hunting and outdoor activities on our farm in Rural Valley, PA with combat-wounded veterans has been a great experience for our entire family and for all the volunteers who put so much energy and effort into our events. It has been an honor to be able to show our appreciation to these Heroes by inviting them into our home and providing a family-oriented environment for them to gather and to have an opportunity for camaraderie. For us, it has been a wonderful way to say “thank you” for all that they have done and for their sacrifices in protecting our freedom.
What have been some positive affects you have seen in the lives of Heroes that have attended your events?
One of the most positive effects that we have witnessed is seeing the Heroes relax and open up to each other and the volunteers as they share in the hunting and outdoor experiences. Each one of the Heroes comes to the events at their own unique stage in life and with their own unique experience base, but, ultimately, the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and nature brings them together in a way that allows them to share their common bond. We believe that providing an opportunity for camaraderie among the Heroes is one of the most important and healing elements of the events. Having the Heroes experience the various expressions of appreciation from our family and our group of volunteers has also had a very positive effect. Seeing and experiencing directly the positive impact that the events have on each of the Heroes has been one of the most rewarding and meaningful experiences for all of us!
What has been the biggest benefit for you, your family, and the incredible supporters and volunteers who help make your events so successful?
Being able to involve the entire family to serve the Heroes has been a great experience for us. Personally serving the Heroes by providing a warm and welcoming hunting lodge, home-cooked meals, and volunteers anxious to help and accommodate has been inspiring for our entire team. To be able to experience first-hand the positive impact an event can make in the Heroes’ lives is so meaningful and humbling. Although the events are centered around hunting and fishing, it is really about providing a supportive and safe environment for the Heroes to gather, share, and to be appreciated.
What would you say to others who are considering getting involved with WWIA either as a Hero or in any other capacity?
WWIA is a great organization with an important mission. The Foundation is staffed with dedicated and competent individuals who are supportive of our efforts and who live the mission of the organization every day. Just being associated with them has been an honor, and we would definitely encourage anyone considering getting involved with WWIA to contact the organization and step in. There are so many ways to make a meaningful contribution, from volunteering as a guide to providing a meal or snack for an event or by making a financial contribution. All of these contributions are important and impactful. We have found working with WWIA to be inspiring and moving, and we hope that the Heroes that we serve feel as uplifted and inspired as we do.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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:
Anthony McCann $5,000
Jennifer Zirpoli $1,265.05 (via CARS vehicle donation)
Ross Anderson $1,000
Darrell Dunham $1,000 (Giving Tuesday Now)
Carol Williamson $868.50
Jason Scott $650
Colonel (Retired) Arthur Kandarian $500
Walter DeForest $500
Donations toward 7th Annual DoubleCreek Lodge TN Rifle Deer Hunt
Rob and Amy Reynolds $3,542
Donations toward 2nd Annual New Hampshire Bear and Bass Combo
NH Veterans' Association $1,000
The Jack & Dorothy Byrne Foundation, Inc. $3,000
Donations toward 6th Eagle River Muskie Chal-Lunge
Three Lakes Fish & Wildlife Improvement Assoc. $1,800
James & Shawn Stemper $1,400
Jeffrey Miller $1,000
Ruedebusch Development $1,000
American Legion Post 114 $800
Eagle River Lions Club $600
Appraisal Associates $500
Donations toward 8th Annual MD Duck & Goose Hunt
Chad Gordon $3,840
Donations toward 9th Annual MD Duck & Goose Hunt
Fort Myer Thrift Shop $967
Donations toward Inaugural Kabco Builders Hunt
People's Independent Bank $500
Marshall-Dekalb Electric Co-Op Communication $500
Donations toward 11th Annual NY Upland Bird and Couples Retreat
Macedon Volunteer Fire Dept $1,000
Inland Waters Trap Club $573
Donations toward 8th Annual Bayfield Cast & Blast
Dairyland Fence $3,000
Delta United Church of Christ $500
Donations toward 8th Annual Great Creek Deer Hunt
Fort Myer Thrift Shop $1,772
Donations toward 5th Annual Great Creek Deer Hunt
Fort Myer Thrift Shop $1,991
Donations toward 8th Annual PA Cast & Blast
Fox Gap Rod & Gun Club $935.36
Donations toward 9th Annual Lake Erie Trophy Walleye Fishing
Hudec Dental Associates $1,000
Syntec, LLC $1,000
Declan Construction $500
Frances and M. Culeen Carey $500
Kroffke Dental Associates $500
River Marine Supply Co $500
Nick Strimbu, Inc $500
Kitchen and Bath Etc $500
Becdel Controls, Inc $500
Streetsboro Dental $500
United Contractors, Inc $500
Morgan & Lemke, DDS $500
Knights of Columbus 947 $500
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Thank You Fort Myer Thrift Shop!
|
|
 |
|
It is with tremendous gratitude and appreciation that we recognize and salute the patriots from Fort Myer Thrift Shop and Boutique for their generous donation of $6,210 to WWIA. This donation will benefit WWIA events in both Virginia and Maryland. Thank you for your outstanding support and dedication to WWIA and our Purple Heart Heroes throughout the years.
|
|
|
|
|
Order From Ammo.com and Help our Heroes!
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
