9th Annual NC OBX Waterfowl Hunt
January 9-12 Powells Point, NC
|
|
 |
|
Six of our Purple Heart Heroes gathered in Powells Point, NC to enjoy some fellowship, fun, and world-class waterfowl hunting at the 9th Annual North Carolina OBX Waterfowl Hunt. From start to finish, the community support surrounding this event is simply amazing. One example is our Heroes being presented with hand-written letters and cards from local elementary schools upon their arrival, thanking them for their service and sacrifice. Time in the field was a bit more challenging during the event, but the camaraderie, stories, and laughter shared between our Heroes were far greater than the harvest. On the morning of their final day, despite the downpour of rain, the NC Patriot Guard, Currituck County Sheriff, Currituck County Fire Department, a limousine company, and hundreds of members of the local community gathered to honor and show their appreciation for our Heroes as they departed. Our Heroes were met at the North Carolina/Virginia state line by the Virginia Patriot Guard who escorted our Heroes the remainder of the way to the airport. It was a memorable way to end a tremendous event and our Heroes were moved by the incredible display of gratitude and patriotism. We would like to express our appreciation to Chef Wes Stepp for graciously providing two gourmet meals to our Heroes from his outstanding Red Sky Cafe'. Additional thanks to all the local businesses, restaurants, and community members that graciously served and honored our Heroes throughout their stay. Special thanks to Hosts Larry Beasley, Tim Brown, and Tim Spence for putting on another outstanding event for our Heroes, and to Brook Sparks for her outstanding coordination and support each year. Recognition and thanks to WWIA Guides John Keeney and Jordan Bondurant for their contributions and care throughout the event.
"Words are not enough. What you all do is beyond healing. I immediately felt the brotherhood and fellowship and it is something that I have missed and needed. Thank you for helping me reconnect. There is nothing in this world that can be compared to the bonds that are created when men go to war, walk and chew the same dirt, sweat and bleed, laugh and cry. This I am forever thankful for, the brotherhood. Thank you for the incredible opportunity these past few days. I will remember this until all of time is done. Keep the fire and passion going strong, reconnect as many as you can, your passion is awe-inspiring. Thank you! All my best. Fraternally yours."
|
|
|
|
9th Annual SW Ohio "Fowl in your Face" Waterfowl Hunt
January 10-13 Dayton, OH
|
|
 |
|
The 9th Annual SW Ohio "Fowl in your Face" Waterfowl Hunt welcomed five of our Heroes to kick off the new year with some outstanding hunting, hospitality, and bonding between brothers over four days. This seasoned event offered the right combination of relaxation, restoration, and quality time in the field for our combat-wounded veterans. During the first day of hunting our Heroes shot their limit on geese. Later that evening they were treated to an exceptional walleye dinner courtesy of Don Staubitz, WWIA Pro Staff Richard Wright. They enjoyed this meal with other supporters from the local community who came out to honor our Heroes and express their appreciation. Another highlight was a day spent hunting pheasant, chukar, and Hungarian partridge. The friendships and memories made throughout these four days will carry-on for years to come. Our gratitude and thanks to Hosts Dave Studenka, Dan Doll and the phenomenal SW Ohio team of supporters for putting on another top-tier event. This event would not be possible without the dedication and selfless support of so many wonderful people and businesses. High praise and gratitude to Ken Staubitz, Wade Walker, Howard Boxley, Dwight Sizemore, Steven Souder, Judd Powell, Mike Ward, Jack Holms, and Mike Stoll for their outstanding efforts and support. Our sincere thanks to Safari Club International Southwest Ohio Chapter, Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati Juice Club, Party Town LLC, Rooster's, Midway Cafe', Celanese Corporation, and B&B Carryout. We also extend our condolences on the passing of long-time supporter Bo Bradley, owner of B&B Carryout. Special recognition and thanks to WWIA Guide Jake Whipkey for his leadership and attention to our Heroes throughout the trip."I haven’t really had this much fun in years, being able to hang out and hunt with other veterans and volunteers eager to help a group of new hunters. The weekend was a really great weekend of camaraderie and hunting. Even if Jake did miss our only duck at 20 feet. This program is better than any I have seen for combat vets either within the DOD or private sector."
|
|
|
|
|
10th Annual Russell, AL Deer Hunt
January 17-20 Hawthorne, AL
|
|
 |
|
Four of our Heroes traveled to Hawthorne, AL for the 10th Annual Russell Alabama Deer Hunt. This event proudly celebrated a decade of welcoming and hosting Purple Heart Heroes to the beautiful Alabama countryside. It provided our Heroes with some well-deserved time away from the burdens of everyday life so they could relax in the great outdoors, enjoy world-class deer hunting, and build new friendships with their fellow Purple Heart brothers. Throughout their stay, they experienced top-notch food, lodging, and plenty of shared stories and laughter around the campfire. Our Heroes found great success early on in the field, as they harvested two does and a buck on their first day of hunting and then enjoyed a delicious homemade prime rib dinner later that evening. The following days included both deer and hog hunting and everyone raved about what an exceptional time they had throughout this four-day excursion. We would like to extend our appreciation and gratitude to Hosts Ritchie Russell and Ira Everett for another first-class event and for their faithful support of WWIA and our Heroes throughout the past ten years. Additional recognition and thanks to WWIA Guide Asa Barrett for his outstanding efforts during this event.
"I wanted to say thank you to you, all of the Wounded Warriors in Action, and everyone involved with putting together last weekend’s hunt. That trip helped me tremendously and helped me escape the struggles I have been having lately at home, at work, and with my service-related injuries. Spending time with other combat-wounded veterans, shooting and dragging deer out of the woods, and shooting hogs in the swamp last weekend made me completely forget about all of my daily challenges and anxiety. Again, thank you for sending me on the hunt of a lifetime and bringing me out of the funk I have been in lately."
|
|
|
|
|
8th Annual Maryland Duck & Goose Hunt
January 17-20 Easton, MD
|
|
 |
|
The community of Easton, Maryland proudly welcomed four of our Heroes for the 8th Annual MD Duck and Goose Hunt. This event featured world-class goose, duck and pheasant hunting and was the perfect place to relax and restore for a few days. Upon arrival, our Heroes enjoyed skeet shooting at the Talbot Rod & Gun Club in preparation for their weekend hunts. They were also graciously provided with beautiful goose calls courtesy of Sean Mann. Our Heroes had an amazing time in the field, successfully harvesting birds throughout their four-days, but the true highlight of the event was the opportunity to build strong new bonds with their fellow Warriors. The food, hospitality, as well as the appreciation shown by the local community were second to none. Our Heroes returned home with a cooler full of game birds, but more importantly, new friendships and lifelong memories to cherish. High praise and gratitude to Host Brian Wegener and friends for their tremendous care and coordination throughout this stellar event. Additional thanks to WWIA Guide Tim Spence for his contributions and assistance from start to finish.
"Blown away by this event! I don’t think I have ever hunted with a greater group of guys. Not only did I have a great time, I walked away with a wealth of knowledge not only in hunting but in life as well. As far as our WWIA Guide Tim, you guys have yourself a man that is passionate about the organization, willing to go the extra mile for us guys and makes you feel like part of the group that is hosting you. 2019 was a bad year for me. I kept telling myself that things in 2020 will be better. I wasn’t wrong, this trip is exactly what I needed. I couldn’t have dreamed how much I would be taking back with me, the knowledge and great memories. I am grateful for the opportunity to do this, WWIA really knows how to put on a great time, thank you."
|
|
|
|
|
3rd Annual Long Leaf Alabama Whitetail & Quail Hunt
January 24-27 Bay Minette, AL
|
|
 |
|
Four of our Heroes traveled to scenic Bay Minette, Alabama to enjoy world-class hunting at the 3rd Annual Long Leaf AL Whitetail and Quail Hunt. Upon arrival, our Heroes were welcomed and honored with a delicious dinner by the Host, volunteers, and supporters of the event. The hunting was exceptional as they were able to harvest multiple deer and quail all three days in the field. The combination of camaraderie, beautiful surroundings, and pristine hunting at this event provided the perfect environment for healing and restoration to occur. As outstanding as the hunts were, our Heroes equally enjoyed sitting around the fire each night sharing stories and laughs with one another. This event keeps getting better every year. Not only did the Warriors return home with coolers full of meat, but they also returned with new friendships from their time at Long Leaf. Tremendous appreciation and thanks to Host Andy McMillan, his family, and friends for hosting another spectacular event. Additional recognition and gratitude to WWIA Guide Derrick Oursler for his outstanding support and care throughout this event.
"Let me begin by saying from the bottom of my heart, thank you! I was blessed with great military service. After retiring from the Army, I had a very negative outlook on life. Feeling like my life had been ripped from under my feet. I fell into a horrible place. Thanks to the hard work of WWIA and its generous network of family, this event has been like a soul rejuvenation. I know these are only the words I am thinking at this moment. It is just a glimpse into the huge unforgettable experience this hunt has been for me. Thank you to WWIA and for everything the McMillan family has done to help. This message is only a small amount of the gratitude I have for everyone who helps to make these events happen. Our Guide Derrick shot straight with me, helped me to focus on who I am so that my perceptions do not prevent me from being the leader I am in my community. Thank you! Please continue the good mission you all are doing because you change lives."
|
|
|
|
|
7th Annual Wisconsin Woodturning Event
February 2-7 Kronenwetter, WI
|
|
 |
|
The 7th Annual Wisconsin Woodturning event brought four of our Heroes together over 6 days to learn a unique and valuable skillset. Our Heroes were instructed in the art of woodturning and fashioned beautiful handcrafted wooden items including a pencil holder, a deep hollowed vessel with top, inlaid plates, platters, bowls, natural edge bowls, mallets, spinning tops, mushrooms, round wooden boxes, pens, cups, wands, duck calls, deer calls, bottle stoppers, and bud vases. The number of items crafted by the Heroes was impressive and the quality was exceptional. The camaraderie among the entire group was fantastic, and their ability to share experiences and stories throughout the event only added to the bonds formed among these brothers. Our appreciation and gratitude to all the instructors: Ken Day, Bill Kingsbury, Tony Kopchinski, and Bob Stavran for sharing their time, knowledge and skills with our Heroes. Special thanks to Mike Banderob for his support and assistance. Our heartfelt recognition and thanks to Tony Kopchinski for graciously hosting our Heroes and for his incredible hospitality and guidance throughout this event.
"I can’t help but say how thankful I am to be at this event. I’m not a woodturner, but Tony and all his helpers do such a wonderful job for a rookie (me). They have so much patience for someone that hasn’t ever done this kind of stuff. It is an experience that I would not have had without Tony and WWIA. Thank you so much for allowing a 75-year-old vet to have a new experience. Love you all."
|
|
|
|
|
2020 Apollo Beach Fishing Excursion
February 7-9 Apollo Beach, FL
|
|
 |
|
Our sincere appreciation to John and Susan Cerreta and to Mike and Debi Davenport from the WWIAF Southern Vermont Chapter. John and Susan were our honored guests at our 2020 Apollo Beach Fishing Excursion held February 7th through 9th and were accompanied by VT Chapter President Mike Davenport and VT Chapter Treasurer Debi Davenport for a weekend full of sun and fun. This exciting all-inclusive trip was offered as a raffle prize during the 7th Annual Southern Vermont Chapter Fundraising Dinner where their community raised an incredible total of $58,598.13! This weekend excursion included a meet and greet with the WWIA staff at our headquarters, lodging, a full day of fishing, and fresh southern and seafood dinners throughout their stay. The fishing on Saturday was simply outstanding as they brought in 5 cobia on the flats, lots of snook and trout, and a few jacks as well. Special thanks to Captain Phil Pegley for his expertise and guidance on the water. While John and Mike fished with WWIA Founder John McDaniel, Susan and Debi enjoyed a day visiting St. Armands Circle and Lido Beach in Sarasota accompanied by WWIA's own Nichole Veesaert. It was an amazing weekend spent with some wonderful and faithful WWIA supporters. We would also like to honor and give special thanks to the entire WWIAF Southern Vermont Chapter for their tremendous support and fundraising efforts throughout the years. The Southern Vermont Chapter is a WWIA Medal of Honor decorated patron, raising over $250,000 in support of our Heroes since 2013! We are humbled by your dedication and patriotism, and proud to serve our Purple Heart Heroes with you!
|
|
|
|
|
Good Life RV Resort Valentine's Day Dance WWIA Fundraiser
February 14 Bartow, FL
|
|
 |
|
The Good Life RV Resort in Bartow, FL recently held a Valentine's Day Dance Fundraiser with ticket sales and donations graciously going to WWIA. They raised an incredible $1,205 in support of our Purple Heart Heroes! Trish and Jaybird Corcoran provided the emcee and dee-jay services, keeping the residents entertained and dancing well into the evening. Trish and Jaybird have been incredible supporters of the Foundation, bringing awareness to our mission as they travel around hosting dance parties. WWIA's own John McDaniel and Nichole Veesaert were in attendance to proudly present Trish and Jaybird with the Purple Heart Patron Award for their faithful dedication and service. Our sincere thanks and appreciation to Trish and Jaybird and to the residents and staff of Good Life RV Resort for their tremendous support and patriotism.
|
|
|
|
|
Thank You Madison Block & Stone!
|
|
 |
|
We recognize and salute the tremendous patriots from Madison Block & Stone (Madison, Wisconsin). They recently held their Inaugural Big Buck Contest and all proceeds from this company fundraiser were graciously donated to WWIA. They raised an impressive $2,400 dollars in support of the upcoming 8th Annual Bayfield Cast & Blast! We are humbled and thankful for their generosity and support of WWIA and our Heroes.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
WWIA January/February Spotlight
|
|
 |
|
We are honored to kick off the new year by introducing you to this edition's WWIA Spotlight Host, Roy McKenzie. Roy is Host of the annual North Dakota Wild Pheasant Hunt held in Garrison, ND. This is truly a community event, embraced and supported by the city of Garrison and its patriotic residents and businesses. We hope you enjoy getting to know Roy and we appreciate him taking time out to share his thoughts and experience as a WWIA event Host.
Roy, can you please give us a brief introduction and tell us a little about yourself?
I share life with my beautiful better half, Gerri. Together we share five children and a growing number of grandchildren, mostly baseball players, but a few future ballet dancers as well, thus far! I enjoy fishing, hunting and spending time with family and friends. Cooking is also my joy! I have worked in management in the grocery industry specializing in the meat and seafood aspect of the business for over 38 years. Growing up in the Gulf South region of Mississippi. The grocery business has afforded me the opportunity to live in many parts of the country. In 2010 we relocated to Garrison, North Dakota as an opportunity with Krause’s Markets presented itself. Garrison quickly became that one place that was very easy to love and appreciate. Its beauty and abundance of wildlife, as well as the wonderful welcoming of its community members, are as good as it gets anywhere. North Dakota upland hunting and its beautiful Lake Sakakawea’s draw of walleye fisherman from all over is something to be appreciated. It’s small-town living at it’s best!!
How did you first get involved with WWIA?
I first heard about the WWIA foundation back in 2016 from Rick McConico of Old Oak Retrievers, my dog, Gov’s trainer. I had the opportunity to visit Grand Ciel Lodge in South Dakota to pick up Gov from Rick and as I toured the facilities I got to see all the wonderful photos hanging on the walls of past WWIA events they had hosted. I knew immediately that I wanted to somehow get involved. Seeing the smiles and expressions on those Warriors faces in the photos said it all for me! The very next month I was on the phone with Rick getting info on how I could get involved and possibly set up a hunt here locally. Through a special event sponsored in part by Krause’s Market in Garrison, it has now become an annual affair that the entire community wraps itself around.
Why do you choose to Host the North Dakota Wild Pheasant Hunt event?
I honestly can't imagine a better place to pheasant hunt than in North Dakota, especially in Garrison. I’ve been blessed with many friendships in life, but one friendship that will always remain in my heart was that of Glenn Schreiner. Glenn was a man with a heart as big as they come, and he was my go-to guy when it came to setting up our WWIA North Dakota Wild Pheasant events over the past two years. Glenn was a selfless farmer who graciously opened up his land (abundant with crops and water) to the annual hunt each year. Our annual WWIA North Dakota event became as much his passion as it was mine, and together we worked hard to make it unique and memorable for our Heroes. Today, however, my heart still breaks at the untimely and unfortunate passing of Glenn on November 01, 2019, just over a week after our last event. In the days prior, he was already sharing ideas and planning for the 2020 event Glenn was a true patriot, incredibly selfless, and always ready to help where he could. The WWIA event held a special place in Glenn's heart, as it does in mine and our local community. That will continue as we prepare for our third annual event this October. As we look forward to welcoming and honoring our Heroes, we will also dedicate this event in Glenn's honor, I’m already seeing to it!
What have been some of the positive affects you have seen in the lives of Heroes that have attended your events?
There’s nothing more satisfying to me than seeing our Heroes smile again. Many of the Heroes that attend our event aren't sure what to expect since most of them have never upland hunted before. Its an awesome experience watching their excitement and confidence build throughout the event. The gratitude and joy they express from these events is a true blessing to me. It’s not often in life that people like myself get the opportunity to share a weekend of hunting and fellowship with American Heroes who have sacrificed life and limb for our freedoms. I would encourage anyone that has an opportunity like this to become a part of it and take advantage of it because blessings like these don’t come around very often!
You have an incredible community of volunteers, supporters, and donors who have selflessly supported your event over the past two years. Do you have any comments regarding your supporters?
Sponsors and community involvement in hosting this event are essential to its success. Without community support and donors it would be hard to plan such a huge event year after year. We’ve been fortunate enough to have some wonderful volunteers, sponsors, and donors from the local community and across the state that help make it possible for our events to take place. The success and impact of our events are directly related to the hard work, dedication, and commitment of everyone who supports them. They all continue to look forward to it year after year.
What would you say to others who are considering getting involved with WWIA either as a Hero or in any other capacity?
I would like to tell people that if there’s an opportunity to host an event or become a part of one in any way, I highly encourage it. You’ll receive a blessing like no other. Our WWIA Heroes deserve and need events like these in the great outdoors so they can bond with and encourage each other. It's important that we get involved, show that we care through our actions, and ensure that their sacrifices haven’t gone unnoticed or unappreciated.
|
|
|
|
|
|
