To try and capture in words on this small note what this weekend has done for me, would not be possible. Know that this weekend will leave a lasting impression on not only me but the group of guys we shared all of this with. This weekend helped to reset my personal clock so to say. This event was exceptional. What I can’t leave out is my appreciation for what you two have done and what you continue to do from the initial email to the last meal before departing for the airport. You made me feel at home. You two are exceptional people and I look forward to crossing paths in the future. Thank you.

-P. Collins, USMC
Purple Heart Recipient

I just wanted to touch base after the hunt. I can’t point to one particular thing that made it best except the overall experience. The time without TV, cell phone signal, time in the blind or stand made me slow down and just be left alone to me and my thoughts. The fellowship was great and to be honest, I didn’t miss any of the electronic things. Shelley and Dennis were amazing hosts and we now have another family. Unfortunately, no one was able to land a deer, but I would do it all over again just for the experience. Thank you again for the chance to go on this excursion.

D. Griffis, US Navy
Purple Heart Recipient

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 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.

-R. Nagg, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

The 2019 Shell Beach event was a professional, first class, well run event from beginning to end. The Guides and volunteers were always there to give a hand or help where needed. Awesome food and great personalities down here with wonderful hospitality. This was my first WWIA event and first-time saltwater fishing. I’ve gotta say, I’m hooked and would come back in a heartbeat! Thank you so much for it all!

-N. Howe, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

This event was life changing. From the initial contact to meeting Derek at the airport, he was extremely fun and helpful. I was at first reluctant about going at all. To be honest because I did not feel I was any more deserving and also, I am reluctant to meet new people. However, after attending and working with all of these wonderful people at Eagle River, Scott, Chas, Joe, Dan and all the other veterans and sponsors, I truly feel blessed and appreciate WWIA for this event and all you do for our combat-wounded veterans. As the National Junior Vice Commander of the MOPH, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart. I don’t consider myself a Hero, but I sure meat a bunch out here on this event.

-J. McCormick, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

I had a great time fishing. The guides, the sponsors and everyone involved made this event for me, something special. I will always remember and be forever grateful for this experience.

-J. Tempesta, US Army Vietnam
Purple Heart Recipient

I had a great experience and learned so much about Muskie fishing. Great group of people and friends of a lifetime. Thank you.

-M. Johnson, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

This was an awesome weekend of learning and fishing for some awesome fish. I have made some great friends and have had great talks with people that understand what I have gone through. Thank you WWIA!

-M. Engel, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

Roy “kind of a big deal” Holland and the men who put on this hunt of a lifetime here in New Hampshire for Black Bear and Bass Fishing made a dream come true. Not one dull moment, we laughed nonstop! Best time ever. This is truly a place that made me feel like I have been a part of the family and not once did I feel like a black sheep. Nothing but praise and smiles from here. The biggest smile of my hunting life is this black bear. Thank you all so very much! Forever memories and lifelong friends. Thanks to WWIA! Just Awesome!

-B. Plum, US ARMY
Purple Heart Recipient

This was a great weekend hunting back here in Maine. Dan and Katie were excellent Hosts and the food was great. I really appreciate what WWIA does for veterans. It is a great program. Thank you.

-T. Meckley, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

Bear down! Thank you WWIA for memories and newfound friends. Love, Family, Respect!

-J. Dameron, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

This has been a great hunt. A big thank you to WWIA for all the hard work getting me to this hunt. Daniel and Katie went above and beyond. They really made me feel like family. God Bless You.

-D. Benoit, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient