Notes from the Field: October 2019

NOTES FROM THE FIELD: OCTOBER 2019 

A beautiful fall view from the 7th Annual Bayfield Cast & Blast.
Photo courtesy of WWIA Guide Derek VanBuren.

Notes From the Field: October 2019

October was a busy and exciting month for WWIA as we proudly hosted seven world-class events across the country that included opportunities for whitetail deer, wild pheasant, muskie fishing, and more. We were also honored to have so many phenomenal fundraisers as our incredible family of supporters went above and beyond to tell others about the work WWIA is doing on behalf of our combat-wounded veterans. Read on to learn more about the opportunities our Heroes were able to enjoy this month and get ready for more amazing adventures ahead!

CFC Season is Here! Help Support WWIA with a Pledge!

Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) season is here! 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. Your pledges and contributions received help non-profits like WWIA continue the work we are doing to assist in the healing and recovery 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. We thank you in advance for your consideration and for your faithful support as you partner with us.

Events and Fundraisers

3rd Annual Hero Shot Archery Whitetail Hunt

September 30 - October 6   Quincy, IL

Two of our Purple Heart Heroes came together in Quincy, Illinois for the 3rd Annual Hero Shot Archery Whitetail Hunt. This exceptional event paired our Heroes together with Jason Selman, owner of Hero Shot Outfitters over seven memorable days. Our Warriors relished their time in the field, harvesting a beautiful doe and buck in the scenic Illinois countryside. In the evenings, our Heroes shared stories and laughs while enjoying great food and developing strong relationships with the Hosts and each other. This environment provided the ideal combination of hospitality and healing in the great outdoors, and we are extremely grateful to have the support of Hero Shot Outfitters in offering this event. High gratitude and thanks to our gracious Hosts, Jason and Amber Selman for honoring our Heroes with this unique opportunity. Special thanks to Colonel Tom for his assistance, to Stacy for the delicious meals, and to everyone who welcomed and cared for our Heroes throughout their stay. Our recognition and appreciation to WWIA Guide Crystal Masek for her care and coordination from start to finish.

"Well, I guess I’ll start off by saying Thank you!! WWIAF, Crystal, Jason and all the others. It has always been a dream of mine just to get to Illinois to hunt whitetails, not only was that made a reality but being tagged out leaving here set the bar even higher. I just can’t express in words how happy and thankful I am. Not only did I have an amazing hunt, but I made some awesome new friends. This trip was a success from the day it was booked and the number one reason I did this was answered on the first sit. Fresh air, wildlife and the community of the outdoorsman. I feel like I can breathe again. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I look forward to the next experience of a lifetime."

2nd Annual Shell Beach Louisiana Fishing

October 4-7  Shell Beach, LA

11th Annual Grand Ciel Lodge South Dakota Pheasant Hunt

October 11-14  Plankinton, SD

Celebrating 11 years of hosting Heroes at their beautiful Grand Ciel Lodge, Host Brad and Julie Boisen proudly welcomed eight Purple Heart Heroes to the 11th Annual South Dakota Pheasant Hunt. The first morning allowed for some early trap shooting before hitting the fields for their first hunt. Our Heroes made the most of their time, harvesting an impressive 30 pheasants the first day and another 20 the following day. Outside of their time in the field, our Heroes had plenty of opportunities to relax, share stories, build bonds with their brothers, and take in some first-class meals such as prime rib, whiskey spaghetti, and duck pizza. When you combine world-class pheasant hunting, the bonds of brotherhood and top-tier hospitality in a scenic setting, it's easy to see why this is an impactful and impressive event. With great admiration and appreciation, we thank Hosts Brad and Julie for their stellar dedication and support of WWIA and our Heroes. Thank you for all you do and have done! Additional thanks to Brian Whetstone, Rick McConico, and Corey Tart for their assistance and contributions throughout the event. Special recognition and thanks to WWIA Guide Gabe Fierros for his tremendous efforts and attention during this four-day excursion. 

"Thank you to the WWIAF and Hosts Brad and Julie; without you, none of this would be possible. I loved being able to sit down and connect with my fellow wounded warriors. The stories that we all share will last a lifetime.  I do believe that everything happens for a reason. Our injuries are the reason we all came together. Everyone comes from a different background with different beliefs, but we will always be there for each other in their time of need. The Hosts, Brad and Julie have gone above and beyond to make this a successful and enjoyable event. The volunteers, Rick, Jim, Cory, and Drew worked their butts off to ensure that every warrior knew the rules and were safe. The dogs were beyond amazing; watching them do their work is just something incredible to watch. Gabe was an amazing Guide. He was very professional from Day 1 when he made contact, until the final day. He had the hardest job of all making sure everything ran smooth and keeping everyone together and he did a superb job. I am proud to say that I am a member of this organization and look forward to future events and ways to support WWIA."

6th Annual DoubleCreek Lodge TN Archery Deer Hunt

October 11-14  Hohenwald, TN

Four of our Purple Heart Heroes traveled to the picturesque wilderness of Tennessee to participate in the 6th Annual DoubleCreek Lodge TN Archery Deer Hunt. The fall weather in Hohenwald could not have been better as our Heroes awoke each morning to set off in search of their quarry. The time spent in the outdoors provided a perfect backdrop for healing, camaraderie, and reflection. The evenings were full of stories, laughter, and leisure while our Heroes enjoyed some of the finest home-cooked meals imaginable. This was another exceptional event that left our Warriors with a rapport for their fellow brothers, renewed spirits, and lifelong memories. We would like to convey our heartfelt thanks to Hosts Dennis Reynolds and Shelley Cohen for their impeccable dedication and support of WWIA and our combat-wounded veterans. Every year our Heroes rave about the experience at DoubleCreek being like a home away from home, and that is a testament to the care and attention given throughout this event. Additional thanks to the local community who continually honor our Heroes through their tremendous efforts and support each year. Special recognition and thanks to WWIA Guide Joe Liddell for his coordination and care from touchdown to takeoff.     

"I can’t believe the overall experience that I have had out here on a weekend hunt. The hospitality and a feeling of home away from home was absolute bar none! During my time in the stand, blind and rack awaiting the next day, I have a lot of needed time to reflect on myself. It’s also rejuvenated a desire to get back in the field and hunt deer. Words cannot express the gratitude that I have for you and WWIA for this opportunity!"

2nd Annual North Dakota Wild Pheasant Hunt

October 17-21  Garrison, ND

The incredible people and city of Garrison proudly hosted five of our Heroes at the 2nd Annual North Dakota Wild Pheasant Hunt. Upon arrival, our Heroes were given an honorary escort courtesy of the McLean County Sheriff's Department as residents and businesses waved and welcomed them. They were then treated to an outstanding barbeque dinner at The Hunters Bar & Grill before getting settled into their accommodations. Prior to the first day of hunting, each Hero was graciously provided with hunting boots, pheasant hunting vests, hoodies, and hats from Scheels Sporting Goods and received a thorough safety briefing on handling weapons and target acquisition. After a successful day in the field, the Garrison Fire Department served our Heroes a magnificent, locally caught walleye dinner as everyone enjoyed getting to know one another. They were also gifted with a jar of pickled walleye to enjoy later. The second day of hunting was equally superb as each Hero once again reached their limit. Later that evening, our Warriors were honored with a banquet dinner at the Riverdale Lodge where local residents and special guest Senator Kevin Cramer gathered to express their deep appreciation for the service and sacrifices of our Heroes. They enjoyed a delicious prime rib dinner, had great conversations, and appreciated getting to spend time with the great people of Garrison. Before leaving, each Hero was graciously provided with a handmade quilt from local resident Deb Haskins. The final day found our Heroes back in the field for more fruitful pheasant hunting and then a relaxing evening sharing stories and thoughts of their time in North Dakota. In only its second year, this event is incredibly special and impactful. The community support and patriotism surrounding this event were second-to-none. Thank you to Cabernet Inn Lodge for graciously lodging our Heroes, West River Transit for providing transportation throughout their entire stay, and to Glen Schreiner Farm for providing bountiful hunting grounds, great food, and exceptional hospitality. Our sincere appreciation to Douglas Sportsman Club, Benedictine Living Center, and Glenn Nygard. Our sincere gratitude and applause to Hosts Roy and Gerri McKenzie, Glenn Schreiner, the Garrison Chamber of Commerce, Krause's Market, and everyone who worked together to make this event such a tremendous success. Special recognition to and thanks to WWIA Guide Dan Berryman for his outstanding contributions throughout this event.   

"This is the first time I have been to North Dakota and I have had one of the best times I could have ever imagined. I shot a lot of birds, made a lot of new friends, and added to my circle of family! This has truly been a once in a lifetime event. If it gets any better than this, I have not experienced it thus far in life. Thank you, Dan Berryman, for being a Guide for us and my partner in crime against those pheasants. We got em."

7th Annual Bayfield Cast & Blast

October  17-21, Northwoods Delta, WI

Five of our Warriors were given a Hero's welcome to Wisconsin as they were greeted at the airport by the local American Legion, airport staff, a news crew, and a grateful community to honor their arrival for the 7th Annual Bayfield Cast & Blast. Delta, WI is an ideal setting to get away from the stresses of everyday life and partake in some world-class hunting and fishing over five days. Our Heroes relished their time in the field and on the water, as they were able to harvest both doe and bucks and catch some outstanding musky and northern pike. The hunting and fishing were first-rate, but the true highlight of this trip was connecting with fellow Purple Heart brothers and getting some much-needed healing time in the Northwoods. Our sincere thanks to Terry and Patty Pajtash of The Scenic Drive Resort for their hospitality and kindness in providing lodging and meals for our Heroes throughout their stay, and also to the iconic Delta Diner. This event would not be possible without the support of the local community, and we would like to recognize and thank PJ's Cabin Store, The Flying Eagle, and Liquor in the Woods for their faithful support and contributions. Special thanks and appreciation to volunteers Jamie Vee, Jeff Evans, Terry Pajtash, Josh Teigen, and John Bentley for their dedication and assistance. We salute Hosts Chris and Brenda Diesing and the entire Bayfield Team of volunteers, supporters, and donors who go out of their way each year to honor our Heroes with this memorable event. Additional gratitude goes to WWIA Guide Derek VanBuren for his wonderful coordination and care.

"I just wanted to express my deepest gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the Bayfield Cast and Blast event in Iron River, WI. The Hosts Chris and Brenda Diesing were amazing; they (as well as the community) made me feel very welcome and treated me as if we were already family. My guides Jamie Vee and Jeff Evans were top-notch, true tacticians of their craft. As I was going to work this morning, I felt different- felt rejuvenated. I’m not sure if it was the cool and crisp air of Northern Wisconsin or being around fellow veterans with similar stories as mine, but it worked! So, thank you again! The event gave me the chance to hit the reset button for a while."

11th Annual Camp Hackett Group A

October 24-28, Phillips, WI

Camp Hackett is considered the birthplace of WWIA. It is a special place for many reasons, offering some of the best the Northwoods of Wisconsin has to offer, from scenery to solitude, to a plethora of wildlife. Four of our Heroes recently gathered in Phillips, Wisconsin to spend five days exploring the great outdoors and forging some new friendships at the 13th Annual Camp Hackett Group A Event. This event offered a combination of fishing and hunting for our Warriors with the assistance of skilled local guides. Our Warriors were able to bow hunt for trophy whitetails, shotgun hunt for ruffed grouse and geese, and fish for the elusive and coveted Wisconsin musky. The town of Phillips welcomed and honored our Heroes throughout the 5-day event, only adding to the overall experience. The highlight of the trip was unquestionably the bonds and friendships made between brothers as they spent time in the field, on the water, and around the dinner table sharing stories and life experiences with one another. This event would not have been possible without the selfless support of the local community and the following individuals and business: Bob Bolz, Mike Reed, John Carlson, Don Angelo, Casey Williams, Chad and Travis DeLeasky, Mr & Mrs. Jeffrey Daun, Hides for Heroes, Brigadoon Farm and Winery, Waupaca Foundry, Club 13, Ross's Sport Shop, Kim's 3 Mile Bar & Grill, Widen Enterprises, Cebery LLC, and the Corner Connection Bar, Cabin and Campground!  Our continued thanks to the Tomahawk Wisconsin VFW Post 2687 and the Veterans Administration for their amazing support to our combat-wounded veterans. High praise and appreciation to WWIA Guide Jake Whipkey for his leadership, hard work, and continued service. 

"What this organization does is incredible. This weekend has been awesome. From shooting birds, catching my first Muskie, watching deer and just generally being in some amazing country. There have been many times over the past years when I questioned my decision to join and then stay in, especially after being shot in Afghanistan. Events like this erase that doubt. We have been surrounded by people who remind us why our endeavor is a worthy one. It is so easy to lose that point of reference in the fog of society. The time I spent here has been like being able to push a reset button and it’s like the weight of the world disappeared for a few days. (even though my back feels like the weight of the world is on it from all that Muskie Fishing)! I feel blessed to have the opportunity to experience this place, as the cheesy saying goes 'Time spent in the woods is never wasted'. That couldn’t be truer on this event. I am eternally grateful for the outpouring of generosity."

Mercer Muskie Madness

October 19, Mercer, WI

The 2019 Mercer Muskie Madness fishing tournament WWIA fundraiser continues to raise the bar. They were able to raise an impressive $6,485 in support of WWIA and our Purple Heart Heroes! This annual fishing tournament takes place over 3 days with 10 different fishing locations. WWIA Founder and CEO, Lieutenant Colonel (retired) John McDaniel was honored to be in attendance this year. Our sincere appreciation to all the amazing tournament sponsors, donors, participants, and volunteers. Special thanks and recognition to Host, Wayne Riebe, The Gateway Lodge and Resort, and to everyone who worked hard to make this possible. Thank you for your dedication and generosity.

Indiana HS Girls Volleyball Team Fundraiser

 Indiana, PA

Our sincere thanks and gratitude to the Indiana High School Girls Volleyball Team in Indiana, PA for their outstanding generosity in selecting WWIA as their 2019 charity recipient. The team worked hard, holding a number of fundraising events such as selling gift baskets, holding raffles, bake sales, and donating concession stand proceeds. At their Annual Charity Game, the team presented WWIA Guide Jeremy Smith with a spectacular donation of $1,785.85 in support of the local 7th Annual WWIA PA Cast & Blast event. We are honored and incredibly proud of these young student-athletes. Our sincere appreciation to the players and coaches, the local community, and the Bevevino family for their dedication and support! 

Kim's 3 Mile Bar & Grill WWIA Fundraiser

October 20,  Phillips, WI

Kim's 3 Mile Bar & Grill hosted a Go Packers! BBQ Tailgate Fundraiser with proceeds generously going to WWIA in support of the local Camp Hackett events. There was gorgeous weather and a tremendous turnout as the incredible community of Phillips came out to show their patriotism and support for WWIA and our Heroes. So many people graciously donated their time, money, and food and they raised an astounding $1,088.00! Our sincere thanks and gratitude to Kim's 3 Mile Bar and Grill and to everyone who came out for this special fundraising event! 

WWIA October Spotlight 

It is with great pleasure that we introduce Charlie Rehor and Bowsite.com as our October Supporter Spotlight. Charlie and Bowsite have been faithful advocates of WWIA and our Heroes, raising awareness throughout their community for what we do and also providing tremendous opportunities for our Heroes to participate in world-class bow-hunting excursions. Their dedication to honor and help change the lives of our Heroes is both impressive and highly appreciated. We hope you enjoy getting to know more about Charlie and Bowsite, and we are grateful for their partnership and support.  

Charlie, can you please give us a brief introduction and tell us a little about yourself?

I am retired from the Financial Services business and currently serve as the Sales Manager for Bowsite.com, the Nation's leading Bow Hunting website since 1996. Last year over two million bow hunters visited our site to learn and discuss bowhunting. I have been married for 43 years, am the father of two adult children, and bow hunt around 100 days each year.

How did you first get involved with WWIA? 

My father and his three brothers all served in the World War II era. My Dad, a Marine, was an Iwo Jima survivor but his 18-year-old youngest brother was killed in action on IWO. Five years later his next youngest brother was also killed in action during the Korean War. I never knew these “Brothers of my Dad” but felt that if I could help our modern-day Heroes it may allow me to also touch their souls. I was looking for a way to combine my love of bowhunting with Purple Heart recipients as a way to connect with these Heroes and maybe help a bit by showing them we care. Camaraderie and teamwork are key elements of a bowhunting camp, so this made sense. The problem I had was how to do it right, pick a deserving Hero and coordinate the logistics. This was how I found