I want to thank WWIA for a wonderful experience. I was able to harvest my first buck ever with my awesome guide Mike Vida. I've met so many new lifelong friends in the beautiful state of New York. It was a much-needed break from the daily grind back home. I learned so much from how to field dress a deer and goose and how to prepare game for cooking. It was a very humbling experience and I will always be grateful for being able to attend. Thank you for the support, the volunteers making sure we were always well fed, everything. I enjoyed every part of it, good times.

N. Zardus, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

Patience is a virtue, and I got a quick lesson during this event, and I loved it. Waiting and not moving was very hard for me, but I pushed through and followed the directions of my guide. I want to thank WWIA for allowing me to attend the event. I never have been waterfowl hunting and I have never hunted deer with a crossbow, let alone taking down a buck. Now I can say, I have harvested my first buck and my first waterfowl (duck, and goose). I learned how to field dress a buck, breast out a goose, along with tips and tricks of cooking the game meat. All the volunteers and members of this chapter were so welcoming and giving. I did not go hungry at this event.

M. Zavodny, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

I appreciate WWIA for giving me an opportunity to attend this great hunt. I am humbled to attend and learn from people who care about us and the hunt. I have learned how waterfowl and deer behave in the wilderness, how to use a crossbow, skin a deer, and properly cook game. This trip has been very spiritual and therapeutic. Thank you, I am blessed to be here. The food and fellowship were fantastic. God bless the people of Finger Lakes and the WWIA brotherhood.

J. Wink, US Army, Purple Heart recipient

First off, I'm very thankful WWIA gave me the opportunity to participate in this trip. After being here, I realized very quickly that I needed this more than I thought. It was very comforting being around other veterans and sharing the outdoors together. The host and guides were extremely welcoming, gracious, patient, and hospitable. They all went above and beyond to give us a memorable experience. I am very grateful for the people I met during the weekend we had together.

D. Derr, USMC, Purple Heart recipient

First, let me say thank you. Second, I had a blast. You guys rock. I enjoyed getting to know the guides and the Warriors. Everyone was super nice, and it was great sitting around talking about life and laughing a lot. I would not change a thing. If you ever need help, I'm your man.

M. Dickison Jr., US Army, Purple Heart recipient

Having tried giving spot-n-stalk hunting many attempts over the years, it was great to have the opportunity to learn from some real pros. The amenities at camp were amazing and exceeded all expectations. I never expected to have a toilet seat to sit on after coffee in the morning! Much respect to everyone that gives their support to this great organization. There has been no better form of healing for me, then dressing in camouflage, carrying a pack and weapon, and patrolling God's creation with a mission.

R. Mitchell, USMC, Purple Heart recipient

This event was life changing. I never would have had the access, experience, knowledge, or connections to make a hunt like this happen and WWIA did it. I can't thank everyone enough and I hope to contribute what I can in the future. Awesome people, awesome, animals, awesome time.

B. Filson, USMC, Purple Heart recipient

What an experience. I may be going home empty-handed, but this was the best experience I've had since leaving the Marines. The friendships and knowledge I'm leaving with is life-changing. I wouldn't change anything about the hunt. Getting back outdoors for an extended period is just what I needed. Thank you.

T. McDonnell, USMC, Purple Heart recipient

I had a great time. I was able to relax and had a great time talking to everyone and learning about North Dakota. Hunting even with the crazy weather we were still able to put the smack down on some ducks. I am very thankful for this. I don’t get to get away much, so it was great to be able to relieve some stress. Pat and his wife Sharon were great. I made new friends for life, thank you.
G. Golden, USMC, Purple Heart Recipient

World class people, world class event, thank you so very much!

R. Roiger, USMC, Purple Heart recipient

Being a Vietnam Veteran, I have for 55 years been reluctant to join or participate in any type of organization. WWIA is the first one that after all those years a person I met convinced me to engage in. Although I was nervous about going to your Eagle River, WI event, from the moment I arrived and was greeted I knew this was a special organization. I felt comfortable with the other veterans knowing we all had something in common even though we were from different eras.

G. Kerkman, US Navy, Purple Heart recipient

I can't put into words the gratitude I feel for everyone that made this event possible. The guides who put in so much work, the landowners who allowed us onto their properties and Travis who opened his home to us and made us feel like family. People like the ones I met the last few days remind us of why we decided to join the military. I can only hope everyone understands how much this kindness truly means to all of us. I hope that someday I can repay the kindness shown to us. Thank you .

S. Sawmiller, USMC, Purple Heart Recipient