An amazing trip provided by WWIAF with great people and a great community. Support from organizations like WWIAF and support from a community like this is very far and few between. Thank you for everything.

J. Rissler, US Army
Purple Heart Recipients

First and foremost, I would like to thank the community of Eagle River. The amount of generous, gracious hospitality and welcoming from the lot of them was mind blowing. I came on this trip thinking what this organization can do for me. I am leaving with a purpose I have searched for years for. A way to honor my lost brothers, WWIA is that for me. I am beyond honored to be chosen for this trip. It has changed my outlook not only for what it means to be a Veteran but more so what it means to be a good person. To my Guide, Muskie Bob Jacobs, thank you for the opportunity and honor of joining you on your boat. I truly cannot express how much you now mean to me. The sponsors, organizers, cooks, servers, town…everyone. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. I was not doing very well and this trip has literally saved my life. My fellow Warriors it was an honor to meet you guys. We tend to forget we have support all over this country, we always have an outlet. We are never too far gone, we matter! I was lucky enough and honored to catch 3 Muskie, a noble and elusive fish. I look forward to many more years of helping, listening, and teaching my brothers and sisters in arms. Thank you all again. I know I am leaving people out, but you will forever be a part of my family.

T. Woolly, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

This trip was absolutely amazing! I’ve never seen a community of such wonderful people who care about Veterans the way the Eagle River people do. I will never forget this awesome event. Even though I did not catch a fish, I will leave here with so much knowledge and memories to last a lifetime. Thank you so much to WWIA and the Eagle River Muskie Guides for putting together this incredible event.

C. Rowe, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

This trip will go down as one of my most positive memories. My Guide, Bill J. did an amazing job of teaching this old jar head the tricks needed to land a beautiful Muskie. May God Bless you for what you do for us.

P. Shook, USMC
Purple Heart Recipient

Thank you so much for all you guys do. It is so amazing being able to get together with fellow veterans from all era’s and being able to socialize with individuals with similar experiences. As a single mom with 3 kids, I never get away and have time to vacation. So, these few days away remind me of why I love my country so much. This entire town came together to make a few veterans feel loved. Thank you!

M. Rogers, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

This trip showed me that patriotism still exists. The community of Eagle River was nothing but amazing as were the Hosts. The fishing itself was amazing. I have never been up north and fished before. The Veterans in this group were amazing and we had deep conversations and became close and shared stories I will remember forever.

J. Grubbs, USMC
Purple Heart Recipient

Just a quick note that despite the weather and early departure this was an excellent weekend with great people.
Lodge/Guides = excellent
Hosts = awesome
Associate = excellent.
Even though we didn’t get to fish like we hoped, you’re entire team continuously went the extra mile.

D. Reeves, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

2020 Bear camp was an amazing experience. Everyone was extremely welcoming. I didn’t shoot a bear but sitting in God’s country was so relaxing and cleared my mind. I made some lifelong friends and brothers. This trip will be one I never forget. Thanks so much.

J. Gettings, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

Best hunting trip I’ve ever been on! I’ve done wounded warrior events but never with other Purple Heart recipients only. Great being with other vets that have been through the same ordeals I’ve been through. Everyone here was encouraging and helpful. Never felt like I wasn’t welcome or not part of the group. I can’t wait for my next WWIA event. This event came at a great time of need. Helped me through a rough time.

A. Durso, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

This was an amazing trip; I can’t thank you all enough. I had several firsts on this trip. This was my first bear hunt and I saw my first bear in the wild, my first fisher and first black squirrel. Everyone was so amazing; it was the trip of a lifetime. Thank you.

J. Goodroe, USMC
Purple Heart Recipient

Unbelievable experience! Harvested my first bear tonight! I am so excited, probably won’t sleep tonight! Unbelievable experience, so thankful to WWIA and the supporters here. I can never repay what has happened this week! Thank you all so much.

T. Bell, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient

Wow! 2020 has been a horrible year for most Americans. I am a combat-wounded amputee, I know of roughly 12 veterans that have committed suicide since COVID-19 started to impact our lives. I write that to say that what you all do matters! This weekend means so much to the nine veterans that attended this year. This year more than any other we all truly needed this. Your generosity and hard work matter more than ever. Veterans need this, the camaraderie is indescribable. I love this town and this country. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

S. Nieman, US Army
Purple Heart Recipient