This was an incredible opportunity. I wanted to start off with a big thank you to WWIA for making this happen. Rock was a great Host. The fishing was amazing and the camaraderie of veterans from all ages and theaters is always a fun time. This is a weekend that will always be remembered. Rock, Terry, Jason, Captain Casey, Captain Glenn, and Uncle Dave to you all I wanted to say thank you and I hope our paths cross again.

R. Booker, USMC
Purple Heart Recipient

What a great organization, giving all they have to wounded warriors. No one really knows how much it means to get together with other veterans. To share their experiences over the years. Many separated by years of age, but all young at heart when together. This trip was an experience I will never forget and will share with my family and friends. Great memories, great leadership, great support and great volunteers. First time experience fishing in salt water and I truly enjoyed catching some fish and watching my new friends catch fish. It is hard to explain what I experienced on this trip, but the WWIA group made it all possible.

J. Fraccola, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

Kathy and I can’t thank you enough for the honor we have had to meet you and the great Americans you have surrounded yourself with to make the couples retreat so special for the Warriors but also our wives.
You and your crew have reminded us that there are patriotic Americans that believe that US service members are important to the security of our Nation and are willing to risk their lives to defend the US Constitution and its citizens!
You have made us feel so special and honored by the wonderful gifts and efforts you and your posse have put forth making this weekend so terrific! God bless you and yours!

E. Reed, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

These last few days I have been in awe! The Guides, sponsors, community and the friends and brothers I have met will be remembered forever.

S. Clements, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

This has been an amazing trip! I have never done anything like this, and my Guide, Colin taught me so much. The weather and scenery was worth it. Although I did not catch anything, I had the best time. Thank you for everything, I truly appreciate it.

J. Sinyard, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

I can’t thank everyone enough for being a part of this event. I had an amazing time! Best of all was meeting such incredible people.

R. Gustafson, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

I would like to thank WWIA as well as the Eagle River community. This event is life changing. I would like to thank Dan and Matt for being great Guides for WWIA. I would like to thank Scott for organizing this event. I would like to thank Louie and all of the Guides for a great time on the water.

C. Parsons, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

This is the third time I’ve been blessed by joining WWIA for an event. This one changed my life for the better. I cannot say enough how this group changed my life. The men and women in arms I have met through the years have saved my life. Thank you.

A. Klein, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

Harvesting a black bear was something on my bucket list that I always wanted to do, but truly thought I would never get to. The WWIA allowed me to achieve this life goal and expanded my family. This hunt will be a fond memory that I will look back on for the rest of my life. It will brighten my dark days and always bring a smile to my face. The Hosts of this event are what makes this country great and worth fighting for. In this rough time, it is amazing to see such giving and humble people. Derrick is an amazing Guide and great person. You can tell this group of people really, truly cares. Thank you does not express my gratitude and feelings. 100 pound black bear harvested, thanks!

D. Craft, USMC
Purple Heart Recipient

This was my very first black bear hunt. It was a once in a lifetime experience and I would like to thank the Hosts, Nancy and Dan as well as WWIA Guide, Derrick. Without these people, this event would not have been possible. I was able to enjoy time away with people who understand some of the challenges that todays wounded veterans face. It was exciting, relaxing and most importantly, I built friendships that will last a lifetime. I was able to successfully harvest a 125-pound black bear and every time I look up to see it, I will remember this amazing experience. A big thank you to the WWIA team.

D. English, USMC
Purple Heart Recipient

I struggle to write because it is hard for me to put into words how grateful I am to be a part of such an amazing event. From first contact all the way up to arrival, the communication from the Foundation was incredible. I am truly thankful for such an amazing community in Phillips that has come together to make this event possible. I will forever have great memories from Camp Hackett. The two bear, geese, one porcupine and countless lifelong friends are just an added bonus. Thank you, John, Art and Derek. Thank you to the people of Phillips and thank you WWIA.

T. Ribby, USMC
Purple Heart Recipient

Thank you for everything that you guys are doing for veterans. Your operation is locked in from the get go. It reminded me of being back in the military. This bear hunt was a great experience for me, although no joy in getting a bear. I got to meet some great people. I was able to learn and see how things are done by experienced hunters. We felt at home and very comfortable the whole time. Thank you for everything.

S. Rosales, USMC
Purple Heart Recipient